Director Semmalar Annam’s Tamil film Mayilaa has been nominated for the NETPAC Award at the 2026 International Film Festival of Rotterdam (IFFR).

The film had its world premiere at the festival earlier this month and received a warm response from audiences.

Recognition at a major international platform

The NETPAC Award, given by the Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema, honours Asian films that stand out for their creativity, cultural relevance, and cinematic quality.

A film that connected with festival audiences

Mayilaa offers a quiet yet powerful look at the life of a young working woman as she navigates her way towards self-respect and independence.

The film’s grounded storytelling and emotional honesty struck a chord with viewers during its Rotterdam screening. The NETPAC nomination marks a key moment in the film’s growing international festival journey.

Backed by Pa. Ranjith and Newton Cinema

The film is presented by filmmaker Pa. Ranjith and produced by Newton Cinema, founded by Anto Chittilappally. P. Melody Dorcas leads the film, with V. Shudar Kodi playing an important supporting role.

Strong technical team behind the film

The technical crew includes cinematographer Vinoth Janakiraman, editor A. Sreekar Prasad, music composer Nandhan Kalaivanan, sound designer Anand Krishnamoorthi, and sync sound recordist Amrith Shankar.

The team reacts to the nomination

Sharing her thoughts, director Semmalar Annam said, “This NETPAC nomination is a meaningful recognition for our entire team. We made ‘Mayilaa’ with deep care and honesty, and it is encouraging to see the film being acknowledged at IFFR.”

Producer Anto Chittilappally added, “From the world premiere at Rotterdam to this nomination, the journey of ‘Mayilaa’ has been very rewarding. It is a proud moment for us and for everyone who worked on the film.”

Pa. Ranjith, who presents the film, described it as “a socially rooted and emotionally sincere film”, adding that such stories deserve to reach global platforms.

In a joint statement, the cast and crew said they were grateful for the recognition, calling the nomination encouraging and meaningful.

More festival screenings ahead

According to sources close to the team, Mayilaa will continue its festival run with more international screenings planned in the coming months.

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