Did Taha Shah Badussha Just Become the 'Influential Actor of the Year' at Cannes?

Synopsis
Taha Shah Badussha has made headlines by winning the 'Influential Actor of the Year' award at Cannes 2025 for his roles in 'Heeramandi' and 'PARO'. His heartfelt reflections and the importance of showcasing stories that matter set the stage for a promising future in cinema.
Key Takeaways
- Taha Shah Badussha awarded 'Influential Actor of the Year' at Cannes 2025.
- Recognized for roles in Heeramandi and PARO.
- 'PARO' highlights the issues faced by Molki brides.
- Directed by Gajendra Ahire, produced by Trupti Bhoir.
- Significant recognition for Indian cinema on a global platform.
Mumbai, May 26 (NationPress) Actor Taha Shah Badussha has made a significant impact on the international stage by receiving the 'Influential Actor of the Year' award at Cannes 2025.
This esteemed recognition was awarded to Taha for his unforgettable roles in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Heeramandi" and Gajendra Ahire's "PARO".
Expressing his joy over this achievement, Taha shared on social media, “I am incredibly grateful for this global honor. Thank you, WIBA Awards!”
With the screening of "PARO" at the Marché du Film, Taha noted that the chance to present his work on a worldwide platform is immensely meaningful to him.
“I feel both grateful and humbled to be part of a narrative that truly matters. Presenting PARO at Festival de Cannes is an honor as it ignites important discussions and reflects a powerful reality,” he remarked.
Taha continued, “This chance to display our work on a global stage is incredibly significant to me. I am truly thankful for the love, support, and belief that led us here.”
Directed by Gajendra Ahire, PARO seeks to shed light on the struggles of Paro brides, also known as Molki brides, who find themselves trapped in a vicious cycle of bride-buying and slavery. Taha portrays the character of Rashid, a husband who empathizes with these brides.
Produced by Trupti Bhoir under the banner of Trupti Bhoir Filmss and Sandesh Sharada International Pvt. Ltd, "PARO" is also slated to be presented at Oxford University.
In addition, Taha captured hearts as the passionate and romantic Nawab Tajdar Balloch in "Heeramandi".
As the acclaimed web series celebrated its first anniversary on May 1, 2025, he expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the renowned filmmaker, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, for his belief in him.
“Sanjay sir, thank you for trusting me. For giving me the role of Tajdar. For transforming my life in ways that words cannot fully express. You are not merely a filmmaker, but a dream-giver. I will carry your faith in me as a beacon for the rest of my life,” Taha wrote on Instagram.