CMS Lucknow ICFF 2026 Awards: Stories That Inspired Young Minds
1 International Children’s Film Festival | 7 Days | 60,000+ Young Minds | Countless Stories | A Lifetime of Impact
The CMS Lucknow International Children’s Film Festival (ICFF 2026) concluded on a remarkable note, bringing together a week of powerful storytelling, global perspectives, and meaningful learning. Throughout the seven-day celebration held at the World Unity Convention Centre (WUCC), CMS Kanpur Road, students experienced films that went far beyond entertainment. Instead, these stories encouraged reflection, built empathy, and inspired values that remain long after the screen fades.
As the ICFF 2026 drew to a close, the spotlight turned to those exceptional films that truly stood out for their creativity, message, and impact.
1. Best Children’s Feature Fiction Film
Directed by Mr Leonid Kulibaba
The director received a golden trophy, certificate, and a cash prize of ₹1,00,000, while the producer was awarded a certificate and ₹1,00,000.
2. Best Feature Animation Film
Directed by Mr Mohsen Enayati
The director was honoured with a golden trophy, certificate, and ₹1,00,000, and the producer received a certificate and ₹1,00,000.
3. Best Short Animation Film (Joint Winners)
Directed by Mr Luis Manuel Villarreal
Directed by Mr Fish Wang
Both winners were recognised with a silver trophy and certificate. The director is to receive ₹60,000 and the producer ₹40,000. The prize money will be divided equally between the two winners.
4. Best Short Fiction Film
Directed by Mr Tej Sisodia
The director received a silver trophy, certificate, and ₹60,000, while the producer was awarded a certificate and ₹40,000.
5. Special Jury Award (Dr Jagdish Gandhi & Dr Bharti Gandhi Award)
Directed by Mr Eonsik RHO
The director was honoured with a silver trophy, certificate, and ₹60,000, while the producer received a certificate and ₹40,000.
5. Audience Award (Prof Geeta Gandhi Award)
Directed by Mr Ganesh Hanmantrao Chowgule
The director received a silver trophy and a certificate, recognising the film’s strong connection with audiences.
6. Special Mention Certificate
Watermelon Seed (South Korea)
Directed by Mr Gayeong Kim
The director will receive a certificate for the film.
Heartiest congratulations to all the ICFF 2026 Award winners, filmmakers, and creative teams!
While some films explored emotional journeys, others highlighted social realities. Together, they created a rich cinematic experience that resonated with young audiences across cultures and backgrounds. Moreover, the diversity of winners reflects the global spirit of ICFF. From Russia to Iran, Mexico to Taiwan, and South Korea to India, these stories proved that meaningful cinema transcends boundaries and speaks a universal language.
The festival may have concluded, but its impact continues—through every child inspired, every thought provoked, and every value reinforced. The movies screened at CMS Lucknow International Children’s Film Festival have not only entertained children but have also contributed to shaping a more thoughtful, compassionate, and inspired generation.