Bhubaneswar: The Department of Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD), Government of Odisha, has announced Samarthya 2026, a national-level short film festival aimed at promoting inclusive storytelling by showcasing the achievements, struggles and inspiring journeys of persons with disabilities.
The festival is inviting filmmakers, producers, directors, media students and independent creators from across the country to submit short films of up to five minutes based on the lives of successful persons with disabilities.
Accessibility has been made a mandatory criterion for all entries. Every film must include audio descriptions, sign language interpretation, and subtitles or closed captions, in addition to focusing on the life and achievements of a person with a disability.
Entries can be submitted through www.shortfilmfestodi sha.in until July 7, 2026.
The films will be evaluated July 8, with the winners to be announced July 11.
Awards will be presented in both the national and Odisha categories, while all participants will receive certificates.
The festival was launched in the presence of disability rights activist Jitendra Biswal, film producer Ramesh Barik, actress Sheetal Patra, and other guests. Speaking at the launch, SSEPD Deputy Secretary Sanyasi Behera said cinema should be accessible to everyone and highlighted the Centre’s new accessibility norms for films.
Cinema must be for all, and accessibility should be an integral part of every film,” he said.
