#IIFFB’s Executive Awards for 2025

The Executive Awards at the India International Film Festival of Boston (IIFFB) hold a uniquely important place because they honor individuals beyond just cinematic craft—they celebrate those who have made exceptional contributions to culture, community, humanity, and diplomacy through art, leadership, and collaboration.
While film awards recognize cinematic excellence, Executive Awards honor individuals whose influence transcends the screen—social leaders, cultural ambassadors, change-makers, and allies of India and the diaspora.

What the Award Represents:
Empowerment through Cinema: Recognizes individuals, organizations, or grassroots initiatives that leverage film as a tool for social impact, education, or community empowerment.

1) The Pride of India Award at the India International Film Festival of Boston (IIFFB25) honors exceptional individuals whose achievements and influence have made India proud on the global stage. This distinguished award is presented to trailblazers—artists, visionaries, and change-makers—who embody the spirit of India through their dedication, creativity, and impact across borders. Whether through cinema, arts, social work, or leadership, their journey uplifts Indian identity and inspires generations.

2) The Friends of America Award at the India International Film Festival of Boston (IIFFB) is a prestigious honor that recognizes individuals, organizations, or institutions based in the United States who have made outstanding contributions to promoting cultural exchange, diversity, and mutual understanding between India and America.
This award celebrates those who, through their work in film, media, arts, community service, or advocacy, have built meaningful bridges between the two countries—fostering collaboration, empathy, and shared storytelling.
Whether by supporting South Asian cinema, amplifying underrepresented voices, or creating platforms for dialogue and inclusion, the recipients of the Friends of America award embody the spirit of friendship and cultural unity that IIFFB proudly upholds. It is not just an award—it’s a heartfelt acknowledgment of those who stand in solidarity with Indian narratives while enriching the American cultural landscape.

3) The Friends of India Award at the India International Film Festival of Boston (IIFFB) is a distinguished honor presented to individuals, organizations, or institutions outside of India who have shown exceptional support, love, and dedication toward Indian culture, cinema, and storytelling.
This award recognizes those who have gone beyond borders to celebrate and uplift Indian voices—through collaboration, advocacy, or creative endeavors—and who have helped Indian stories reach new global audiences.
Whether through film, media, education, or cross-cultural engagement, recipients of the Friends of India Award are seen as ambassadors of goodwill who play a vital role in nurturing deeper global appreciation for India’s cinematic richness, traditions, and diverse narratives. By honoring these allies of Indian culture, IIFFB proudly acknowledges their impactful contributions in strengthening the ties between India and the world.

4) The Community Excellence Award at IIFFB25 (India International Film Festival of Boston, 2025) is a prestigious honor that celebrates extraordinary contributions to community-building through the power of film making and cultural engagement.

At IIFFB25, we salute these icons for carrying the essence of India into the hearts of the world.
IIFFB isn’t just a film festival—it’s a celebration of South Asian identity, inclusive, and storytelling. The Executive Awards mirror the festival’s mission to uplift unheard voices, build cultural bridges, and honor social impact.
In essence, the Executive Awards are the festival’s soul—reminding us that cinema is not just entertainment, but a force for change, compassion, and community.

Film Awards Categories:
The Film Awards at IIFFB recognize outstanding talent across all aspects of film making. From powerful performances to impactful storytelling, the following categories highlight the best of the festival:

Best Feature Film
Best Actor (Male – Feature Film)
Best Actor (Female – Feature Film)
Best Director (Feature Film)

Best Short Film
Best Actor (Male – Short Film)
Best Actor (Female – Short Film)
Best Director (Short Film)

Best Young Filmmaker

Best Child Artist

Best Critics’ Choice Award

Best Documentary

Best Social Issue Film (Founder’s Choice)

Best Album (Song)

Each of these awards reflects our commitment to honoring a diverse range of voices and formats—from emerging talent to seasoned professionals, from mainstream cinema to niche, issue-based narratives.

We look forward to showcasing your art and celebrating the vibrant culture of Indian cinema together.

Film Festival:
https://iiffb.org/
https://www.facebook.com/indianfilmfestivalboston
https://www.instagram.com/iiffb24/

BDCTV Inc:

BDC TV

https://www.instagram.com/bdctv/
https://www.youtube.com/@BDCTVOnline

Razia Mashkoor
Founder/festival director:
IIFFB, BDCTV, BDCTVOnline
https://www.instagram.com/raziaboston/
https://www.facebook.com/RaziaMashkoor/