Patna/New Delhi: Filmmaker and actor Amar Jyoti Jha from Bihar won Best Director and Best Actor awards at the Dadasaheb Phalke Film Festival 2026, held in New Delhi, for his film Rebirth (Punarjanm), marking a notable recognition for talent from the state on a national platform.
The film also received recognition for cinematography, with Ranjit K Singh being honoured for his work behind the camera.
Rebirth, which has reportedly won more than 50 awards in India and abroad so far, has also been selected and screened at an Oscar-qualifying festival in the United States, according to the filmmakers, signalling its growing presence on the international festival circuit.
Members of the production team, including chief assistant director Vikas Bachchan and production manager Sanjay Sah, were credited by the team for their contribution to the film’s success.
The production is notable for being made entirely with artists and technicians from Bihar and was shot across multiple locations in the state, including Manikarnika Ghat.
Speaking after the recognition, Jha said Bihar had increasing potential as a centre for film production, but needed stronger structural support to fully develop its creative industry.
The festival, organised by Amol Bhagat, brought together filmmakers, critics and technicians from across India, with a focus on films carrying social messages.
