Vishal Bhardwaj, Shaunak Sen-Backed Fund Awards INR40 Lakh to Ladakhi Film ‘Kakthet’

Stenzin Tankyong’s debut feature ‘Kakthet’ (Idiot), set in the remote high-altitude region of Ladakh, has won the inaugural INR40 lakh ($42,000) co-production fund from Humans of Cinema and Safarnaama Pictures. The Ladakhi-language project was chosen from nearly 400 entries after a rigorous screening process. The fund is mentored by acclaimed filmmakers Vishal Bhardwaj and Shaunak Sen, whose involvement highlights the industry’s push to support regional and indie cinema. ‘Kakthet’ will explore life in Ladakh, a region rarely depicted on screen, bringing local stories to a global audience. The win marks a significant step for Tankyong and for Ladakhi representation in Indian film. As the first recipient, the project sets a precedent for future editions of the fund, which aims to bridge the gap between emerging voices and production resources.