Ali Kazimi’s ‘Continuous Journey’ bagged the Ram Bahadur Trophy with cash award of US $ 2000 in the Film South Asia ’05 on Sunday evening.

The award-winning documentary meticulously explored the hardships suffered by the British Indian passengers of Komagata Maru in 1914.

It is a multilayered film essay that interweaves photographs, archival newsreels, home movies and official documents to unravel a complex and little-known incident.

A complex and moving tale of hope, despair, treachery, and tragedy, a revealing Canadian story with global ramifications set in a time when the British Empire seemed omnipresent and its subjects were restless and seeking self-determination

As Kazimi was not present during the award ceremony, Kanak Mani Dixit – the chairman of the Festival Organizing Committee – accepted the Ram Bahadur Trophy and a cash prize of USD 2,000 on his behalf.

Yasmine Kabir and Sandhya Suri were jointly awarded the second prize at the film festival for “A Certain Liberation” and “I for India” respectively carrying a purse of US $ 1000.

Masood Khan and Kamaljeet Negi bagged the “Best Debut Award” for their joint venture – “My Brother, My Enemy.” Rakesh Sharma walked away with the “Special Jury Award” for “Final Solution,” while Nishtha Jain received special commendation for “City of Photos.”

The first edition of Film South Asia was held in 1997, after which there have been festivals in 1999, 2001 and 2003. The festival has emerged as the only one of its kind, bringing together at one venue documentaries made in various countries and sub-regions of South Asia.

The festival also serves as a get-together of documentary filmmakers and connoisseurs from different parts, a place for renewing energy and exchanging ideas.

This is also an endeavor to support documentary film making within the country.

Nepalnews is providing special coverage of the Film South Asia 2005 including pre-screen reviews for the benefit of our audience.