Mumbai: "Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know," a short film by Chidananda S. Naik from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), has qualified for the 2025 Oscars in the Live Action Short Film category.

The Kannada-language film, inspired by Indian folklore, gained international acclaim after winning the top prize in the La Cinef Selection at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year.

The narrative follows an elderly woman whose theft of the village rooster disrupts the natural order, causing sunlight to vanish and the village to spiral into chaos. The ensuing journey of her family to restore harmony brings out rich cultural and traditional themes.

The production, a collaborative effort with Suraj Thakur as cinematographer, Manoj V as editor, and Abhishek Kadam in sound design, was lauded by the La Cinef Jury for its evocative storytelling and direction.

Director Naik aims to offer audiences a genuine immersion into Indian storytelling traditions, blending vibrant visuals with deep-rooted cultural elements.

Following its success at global film festivals, "Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know" will now engage in Oscar campaigning, bringing this uniquely Indian tale to international audiences.