The Odisha government’s Department of Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) will organise ‘Samarthya-2026’, a national-level short film festival aimed at showcasing the heartwarming success stories of persons with disabilities.
The festival, themed “Success Stories of Persons with Disabilities,” invites filmmakers, directors, media students and independent filmmakers from across the country to submit short films of up to five minutes highlighting the achievements, struggles and resilience of persons with disabilities.
Addressing a press conference in Bhubaneswar, SSEPD officials said the festival seeks to promote inclusion, create awareness and foster a positive societal attitude towards disability. Renowned film personalities, jury members and panel experts were also present. RR Events and Cine Production have been entrusted with organising the event.
Entries must include audio description as well as sign language interpretation with subtitles or closed captions to ensure accessibility.
Interested participants can submit their entries through the festival website by July 7. The films will be evaluated on July 8, while the winners will be announced on July 11. Awards will be presented in both national and Odisha categories, and all participants will receive certificates.