Guwahati: Assamese cinema has earned international recognition as Romantic Affairs and Aakuti (Longing) have been selected for the competition section of the New York Indian Film Festival 2026, marking a significant milestone for the regional film industry. Directed by Monjul Baruah and Snigdha P. Roy respectively, the two films will compete alongside notable entries such as Baksho Bondi, Victoria, Flowers of Acacia, Boong, and The Elysian Field.
Romantic Affairs has secured nominations for Best Film and Best Actress for Kasvi Sonkorison, while Aakuti (Longing) has been nominated for Best Debut Film and Best Child Actor for Kavisha Mahanta. Reacting to the achievement, producer Sanjive Narain described the moment as “truly special,” while Tanuja P. Roy expressed gratitude and excitement about the journey ahead.
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Aakuti explores the tender bond between a father and daughter, while Romantic Affairs presents a coming-of-age narrative centered on adolescence and identity. Organised by the Indo-American Arts Council, NYIFF is North America’s oldest and most prestigious festival dedicated to Indian and diaspora cinema. The 2026 edition will be held in New York City from May 28 to 31. The festival will open with Boong, while Flowers of Acacia has been selected as the centrepiece film. The closing film will be Tighee (Motherhood), highlighting the diversity and global reach of Indian storytelling.
