Rasika Dugal, Gulshan Devaiah's 'Little Thomas' get three nominations at NYIFF

IANS May 13, 2025 279 views

Rasika Dugal and Gulshan Devaiah's charming comedy 'Little Thomas' has secured three significant nominations at the 25th New York Indian Film Festival. The film, produced by renowned filmmaker Anurag Kashyap, follows the heartwarming story of a seven-year-old boy attempting to reunite his parents. Director Kaushal Oza is also recognized for his impressive debut feature, marking a triumphant moment for the film's creative team. With previous screenings at international festivals like Melbourne and Toronto, 'Little Thomas' continues to gain critical acclaim and audience appreciation.

"I am excited and happy with the nomination" - Gulshan Devaiah
Rasika Dugal, Gulshan Devaiah's 'Little Thomas' get three nominations at NYIFF
Mumbai, May 13: Actors Rasika Dugal and Gulshan Devaiah’s film “Little Thomas” produced by Anurag Kashyap has been nominated in the best actor, actress, and director category in the upcoming 25th edition of the New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF).

Key Points

1

Rasika and Gulshan nominated for best actor and actress

2

Debut director Kaushal Oza also receives recognition

3

Comedy drama set in 90s Goa explores family dynamics

4

Film premiered at Melbourne Indian Film Festival

The leads of 'Little Thomas', Rasika and Gulshan, have earned nominations in the acting categories, while the film's director, Kaushal Oza, has also bagged a nomination for his feature debut.

Rasika Duggal, who plays Jessie Miranda in 'Little Thomas', said that she is "delighted" to be nominated for the comedy-drama, which follows the efforts of a seven-year-old boy to bring his parents together and have a little brother.

She said: "I am grateful that the work is being noted and appreciated, and I am looking forward to the response of the audience when the film is screened at the festival. Audiences at film festivals are discerning, and it is always wonderful to receive their view of the work.”

A thrilled Gulshan shared: “I am excited and happy with the nomination that the NYIFF jury has considered me for as the Best Actor for Little Thomas. Looking forward to the festival and also yes, hoping to win the Best Actor award."

Kaushal Oza, who had previously collaborated with Kashyap on That Girl in Yellow Boots and Shaitan, expressed his excitement about returning to NYIFF after the world premiere of his short film The Miniaturist of Junagadh at the festival.

He added: "This time I am delighted that 'Little Thomas' has been nominated at the same festival for the Best Debut Film... What really puts the cherry on the cake is the nominations for both the actors as well!"

Producers Ranjan Singh and Anurag have double the reason to celebrate at this year’s NYIFF, with both Little Thomas and Kashyap’s directorial Kennedy included in the festival’s official lineup.

Produced under the banners of Luminoso Pictures, Civic Studios, Flip Films, and Good Bad Films, 'Little Thomas' had its world premiere at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) last year, followed by the Toronto Indian Film Festival and Chandigarh Cine-Vesture.

Set in the Goa of the 90s, the film follows Thomas, the only child of his parents, who desperately wants a little brother. "One day, he is told that to get a baby brother, his parents will have to kiss. Since his quarrelling parents won't kiss any longer, little Thomas takes it upon himself to make them do the yucky act!” the film's synopsis reads.

Reader Comments

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Priya K.
So proud to see Indian cinema getting global recognition! Rasika Dugal is such an underrated actress - her performances always feel so natural. Hope she wins this time 🤞 The storyline sounds heartwarming too - reminds me of classic 90s family films we grew up watching.
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Rahul S.
Anurag Kashyap's productions always push boundaries. Good to see him supporting new talent like Kaushal Oza. The Goa setting is interesting - hope they've captured the authentic 90s vibe properly. Some recent period films get the details wrong.
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Amit D.
Gulshan Devaiah deserves more mainstream roles! He's been brilliant in every character he's played. The film's concept is simple but universal - every Indian kid with siblings can relate to this dynamic 😄 Hope it gets a proper theatrical release here.
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Shweta M.
While I'm happy for the nominations, I wish our film festivals in India got the same attention. We have brilliant festivals like IFFI and MAMI that deserve more public support. International recognition is great, but we should value our own platforms too.
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Vikram J.
The 90s Goa setting has me nostalgic! Hope they've included some classic Konkani music in the background. Rasika and Gulshan are perfect casting - both have that subtle comic timing needed for such roles. Fingers crossed for all three nominations!
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Neha P.
Interesting that it's a comedy-drama about family - most festival films tend to be serious social commentaries. Refreshing change! Though I hope it doesn't fall into the trap of being too 'westernized' in its humor to appeal to international audiences.

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Tags:
Little Thomas Rasika Dugal Gulshan Devaiah NYIFF Anurag Kashyap Indian Cinema Film Festival
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