The Indian animated short film ‘CHYIMI’, directed by Dr. Partha Sarathi Mahanta (IGP, Assam Police and Commissioner of Police, Guwahati), has won the Best Director Award at the New York Short Animation Festival (NYSAF) 2026.
This marks a significant milestone for Indian and Assamese animation on the global stage.
Key Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
| Film | CHYIMI |
| Category | Animated Short Film |
| Director | Dr. Partha Sarathi Mahanta |
| Award | Best Director |
| Event | New York Short Animation Festival (NYSAF) 2026 |
| Significance | Global recognition for Indian animation |
About Film ‘CHYIMI’
- An animated short film showcasing creative storytelling
- Recognised for:
- Strong artistic direction
- Effective narrative delivery through animation
- Represents Assamese storytelling and culture at an international level
- Highlights the growing role of Indian animation in global cinema
About the Director
| Aspect | Details |
| Name | Dr. Partha Sarathi Mahanta |
| Position | Inspector General of Police (IGP), Assam |
| Additional Role | Commissioner of Police, Guwahati |
| Distinction | Senior police officer contributing to creative arts |
About New York Short Animation Festival (NYSAF)
- An international platform dedicated to:
- Animation films
- Creative storytelling
- Visual innovation
Key Features
- Celebrates: Creativity, Craftsmanship in animation and Originality
- Provides: Global platform for: Emerging filmmakers and Established animators
- Recognises: Excellence in animated storytelling
International Collaboration
- NYSAF is partnered with: Cine Universitario UACJ (Mexico)
Significance of Collaboration
- Selected films get: Additional screenings in Mexico
- Provides:
- Wider international exposure
- Access to diverse global audiences
Importance of Award
- Highlights:
- Growing presence of Indian animation industry globally
- Recognition of regional storytelling (Assamese narratives)
- Strengthens:
- India’s position in creative and cultural industries
- Encourages:
- Innovation in animation filmmaking
- Participation of professionals from diverse fields
- Demonstrates: Expansion of soft power through creative arts
- Promotes: Cultural diversity in global cinema
Static Facts
Animation Industry
- Animation includes:
- 2D animation
- 3D animation
- Computer-generated imagery (CGI)
- Major global hubs:
- USA (Hollywood)
- Japan (Anime industry)
Indian Animation Industry
- Rapidly growing sector in:
- Media & entertainment
- Key drivers:
- Digital platforms (OTT)
- Gaming industry
- Emerging focus on:
- Regional and indigenous storytelling
Film Festivals
| Type | Example |
| Animation Festivals | NYSAF, Annecy International Animation Film Festival |
| General Film Festivals | Cannes Film Festival, Berlinale, Venice Film Festival |