Veteran actor Shishir Sharma wins Best Actor for Kuch Sapney Apne at DCSAFF, Washington DC, marking the film’s twelfth international accolade and reinforcing its powerful impact on global audiences. A #Newsdesk report. 

Award-winning Indian drama Kuch Sapney Apne, directed by Sridhar Rangayan and Saagar Gupta, continues its stellar run on the global festival circuit. Celebrated actor Shishir Sharma has won the Best Actor award at the DC South Asian Film Festival (DCSAFF), Washington DC, for his moving performance as a patriarch navigating acceptance and love for his gay son. This recognition marks the twelfth award for the film, which has been winning accolades and hearts across the world.

Sharma’s portrayal of Damodar—a stern father who slowly softens under the pressures of life and learns to embrace his gay son, while his wife champions LGBTQ+ rights—has resonated deeply with audiences internationally. His layered performance brings authenticity and vulnerability to the character, leaving a lasting impression on both viewers and jury members.

A Performance That Resonates Globally

This win at DCSAFF is not Sharma’s first for the film. He previously received the Best Actor (Feature Film) award at the New Bedford International Film Festival, where Kuch Sapney Apne also secured the Best Screenplay award for Sridhar Rangayan and Saagar Gupta. The repeated recognition underlines the global appeal of the story and Sharma’s ability to breathe life into a complex role.

Speaking about the award, Shishir Sharma said: “Kuch Sapney Apne has been a journey that has been an emotion, difficult to be expressed in words. Having worked with Sridhar and Saagar during my TV days, as also with Mona Ambegaonkar, the bond we shared then was revived with this film, when I played the character of Damodar. The screening at the DCSAFF in Washington was received very well and appreciated, but it was beyond my imagination that I would receive the Best Actor award for this film. This is a wonderful recognition of our efforts as artists. Thanks to the organizers and jury members for this award, and to Sridhar and Saagar and the entire cast for the magnificent support throughout the making of this gem of a film.”  

Recognition of a Collective Effort

Director Sridhar Rangayan, who attended the festival alongside Sharma, emphasized the collaborative spirit behind the film. Together, they also participated in a Masterclass titled ‘Script to Screen’, engaging audiences on the filmmaking journey. Rangayan highlighted that the film’s global recognition is not only a triumph for its cast and crew but also an important step forward for Indian cinema that dares to represent LGBTQ+ stories with dignity and empathy.

With Kuch Sapney Apne continuing its winning streak, Shishir Sharma’s achievement stands as a testament to his craft and the film’s universal resonance. Its powerful message of acceptance, family bonds, and love beyond prejudice ensures its place as one of the most impactful Indian films on the international stage today.

🎬 Watch the Trailer of the film here: Kuch Sapney Apne – Official Trailer