Renowned Indian cinematographer Santosh Sivan is set to receive the esteemed Pierre Angénieux ExcelLens in Cinematography award at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, marking a historic moment as the first Asian to be honored with this distinction. The recognition will commence with a welcome dinner on May 23, followed by an honorary event on May 24.
A conference was held at the Bharat Pavilion to celebrate Sivan’s achievement, attended by actor Aditi Rao Hydari. Sivan’s illustrious career, spanning over decades and encompassing more than 55 feature films and numerous documentaries, includes notable collaborations with director Mani Ratnam on films like ‘Roja,’ ‘Thalapathi,’ ‘Dil Se,’ and ‘Iruvar,’ as well as international projects like ‘Bride and Prejudice’ and ‘Meenaxi.’
Introduced in 2013, the Pierre Angénieux ExcelLens in Cinematography award has been bestowed upon legendary cinematographers such as Edward Lachman, Agnès Godard, Barry Ackroyd, and Roger Deakins. Sivan’s inclusion in this esteemed group highlights his exceptional contributions to visual storytelling.
Reflecting on his journey, Sivan expressed gratitude for the award, emphasizing its significance alongside past recipients whom he admires. He discussed his artistic philosophy, rooted in the visual culture of Kerala, and his transition from celluloid to digital cinematography.
The celebration at Cannes 2024 is a tribute to Sivan’s technical expertise and his ability to evoke emotions through visual storytelling. Set against the backdrop of the Bharat Pavilion, the event promises to be a highlight of the festival, showcasing the global impact of Indian cinematography.
Santosh Sivan’s recognition underscores the profound influence of Indian cinema on the world stage, solidifying his place as a luminary in the field.
