Indian filmmaker Ektaa R Kapoor and comedian Vir Das have bagged the International Emmy Directorate Award and International Emmy for Comedy respectively at the 51st International Emmy Awards in New York City, on November 20, 2023.
Ektaa R Kapoor, the co-founder of Balaji Telefilms, became the first Indian woman filmmaker to receive the special award. The 48-year-old is the daughter of veteran actor Jeetendra. She founded Balaji Telefilms in 1994 and was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2020.
Reacting to the achievement, she said, “I'm delighted to receive the prestigious Emmys Directorate Award! It brings me immense joy and happiness to be honoured at a global scale, such as this.I have always wanted to tell stories because they give me a chance to be heard, seen and represented.”
“I am grateful for the audience's love that has opened doors for me, allowing me to transition from television to the world of films and OTT. The unexpected turns this journey took are a testament to the power of love showered by the people of India and beyond. My heart is filled with gratitude, and a stronger resolve to make a positive impact through my work for audiences," she added.
Comedian Vir Das bagged the award for his Netflix special Vir Das: Landing. He then shared a photo with his trophy on Instagram, and wrote, "For India. For Indian comedy. Every breath, every word. Thank you to the International Emmy Awards for this incredible honour."
He was quoted saying in media reports that his journey from crafting local stories to receiving a global accolade has been both challenging and rewarding and Netflix has been instrumental in that growth. "I am excited about the continued exploration of diverse narratives, from Noida to the International Emmys - India gets you there," he added.
Das is also a musician. He began his career in stand-up comedy, and moved to Hindi cinema, starring in films such as Badmaash Company, Delhi Belly, and Go Goa Gone in supporting roles.
We have a Tie! The International Emmy for Comedy goes to "Vir Das: Landing” produced by Weirdass Comedy / Rotten Science / Netflix#iemmyWIN pic.twitter.com/XxJnWObM1y
— International Emmy Awards (@iemmys) November 21, 2023
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