With an earnest effort to nurture cultural storytelling rooted in Indian tradition, the holy city of Ayodhya hosted the third edition of the Sri Rama International Film Festival from 1–3 April 2025. Organised by ADS Production Hub in collaboration with Ayodhya Kala Sanskriti Mahakumbh, the initiative seeks to felicitate outstanding films and film personalities across 40-plus categories spanning all crafts of cinema that make a social impact with culturally rich and relevant themes.
Among the highlights of this edition was the recognition of two films based on the life and legacy of Prabhu Shri Ram, which collectively won four awards. One is an animation film on Bala Rāma named Sriman Rama, and the other is a documentary shot in Ayodhya, titled Rama Ayodhya. Both films were made by Hyderabad-based Satyakashi Bhargava, a renowned writer and director.
These included Best Director (Animation) and Best Cartoon Animation Film for Sriman Rama (produced by MARA Creations), as well as Best Cultural Story Concept and Best Mythological Documentary Film Director (awarded to Krishna S Rama for Rama Ayodhya in Telugu).
The film Rama Ayodhya (Telugu documentary) was released on the Aha Telugu OTT platform on 17 April 2024, and received positive reviews.
Another film, Sreeman Rama (Hindi), which was released on Doordarshan National TV in 2024, has become a record-breaking show, currently holding the number one spot. It is also available on Prasar Bharati’s Waves OTT.
Expressing his happiness, Satyakashi Bhargava noted that the recognition was a proud moment for Rama Bhakts everywhere, while Bharavi Kodavanti, CEO of MARA Creations, appreciated the team’s hard work and thanked the jury for their encouragement.
“We are in our third year of these awards and are extremely happy to see the nominations. Sriman Rama is truly an enriching show for children as it narrates the highest qualities of the epitome of humankind — Maryada Purushottam Rama. On behalf of the entire jury, we wish the team great success and look forward to organising this on a much grander scale in the coming years,” said Antriksh Srivastava of Sri Rama International Film Festival and Founder of ADS Post Production Hub.
While still in its early stages, the festival has made a commendable start, offering a platform for filmmakers and content creators who draw inspiration from Indian culture, mythology, and devotional narratives. Entries came from across India, reflecting the interest and creative energy among storytellers connected to the ethos of Sanātana Dharma.
Events such as this reflect the ever-growing influence of the temple town of Ayodhya. Though the festival may be a new initiative, it highlights the city’s all-round development and its role in promoting Bhāratīya culture through creative expression.
