Moments Of Clarity TM

Gold Story Of The Year
Writer - Barnali Das, Mumbai, India

Synopsis - The world has become a labyrinth of modern age distractions and temptations. Everyone is lost in the relentless hum of the interwebs. To combat this, NeuroTek Innovations has come up with the device Moments Of Clarity TM, a groundbreaking device promising to break through the clutter and allow the user to connect deeply with their subconscious. As the device becomes a sensation, it catches the eyes of Mrs. Nitya Nair who is wrestling with a personal problem at home. Her son, Ishan, is constantly lost, always on his devices, failing in school. Can this device be the solution for her woes?

Aranyalok

Gold Script Of The Year
Writer - Dhrumil Dhakan, Mumbai, India

Synopsis - In the forest world of Aranyalok, natural births are rare. The forest is depleted, water reserves are shrinking, and the world is ending. Until the messiah is born. Mohini pops out of one of the birthing pods, connected to the trees, deep in the forest. 

Her birth is prophesied to save the forest land by the ancient books. She sets out on a journey with Rudra to save the Forest God, in turn, saving the Aranyalok. But everything changes when Mohini meets Bhairavak and an unlikely conversation ensues.

The same, but different, keeps the original alive

Gold Think Piece Of The Year
Writer - Ujval Nanavati, Pune, India

Synopsis - Answering the question, ‘Is originality dead?’ first begs the questions, ‘What is originality?’ and ‘Was it ever alive?’. If everything is inspired or outright derived from something else, which, in turn, was itself inspired or derived then what is original? A version, cover, or even an imitation is an original as long as it brings something of the creator into it. Without this latitude of thought, it will not be possible to take something good and make it better. Literature, architecture, coding, music, art…everything abounds with such inspired originals, and the world is better for it.

Time Bandits - The Grand Heist

Gold Mini series Of The Year
Writer - Prashant Mishra, Mumbai, India

Synopsis - In 2035, 4 super intelligent engineers plan to steal the world’s most valuable substance, The Red Matter, worth over $30 billion on the black market. It's secured in the Sistine Chapel’s vault, Vatican City. After months of planning, they break through every security layer, only to face the final challenge: the vault can only be unlocked with a chemical composition. The missing ingredient, Compound Z, was destroyed with Billionaire Samrat Kapoor in the 2008 Mumbai Taj Attacks. To complete the heist, they must travel back in time to retrieve it—but how will they return to 2035 afterward?

Running Late

Gold Script Of The Year
Writer - Ayushman Badapanda, Cuttack, India
Genre - Drama

Synopsis - "On a working day, Martin who runs a taxi service is running late to pick his customers. While he arrives at a housing society with an old man as the first customer, Arup is getting ready for an interview and Nirupama , for a meeting. When Martin reaches and picks Nirupama, Arup arrives late as the milk had spilled over while boiling. Soon, Nirupama and Arup start quarrelling and ask Martin to drop themselves first while the old man being the first customer is running late for his diabetes test. When they stop at a traffic, the old man, unable to bear the quarrel, fakes a heart attack so that Martin rushes him to a hospital first. On reaching, he acts normal, gets up and walks into the hospital for his blood test arriving on time. "

Thank You Baba

Bronze Script Of The Year
Writer - Dhairya Zavei, London
Genre - Drama

Synopsis: A piece of good news turns bitter-sweet as a family's financial condition becomes the barrier. The father is unable to come to terms with the compromise they will have to make, and tries his best to save his daughter from the life of struggle he is leading. What is a little white lie against such a noble cause?

Anniversary

#5 Script Of The Year
Writer - Vibhum Sharma, Mumbai, India
Genre - Feel-Good

Synopsis: """ANNIVERSARY"" is a heartwarming story that explores the unexpected connection between two strangers on a train. PRAKASH, a young man grappling with the challenges of a shaky job and a strained marriage, crosses paths with HRIDESH DAVE elderly gentleman celebrating his 40th wedding anniversary.
As Prakash pours out his troubles to Hridesh, the older man imparts timeless wisdom about the true essence of a successful marriage—understanding and the significance of small gestures.
In a moment of serendipity, Hridesh, chooses to tell a white lie about the anniversary date, encouraging Prakash to take the surprise to his wife instead."

Within Earshot

Gold Story Of The Year
Writer - Tamanna Mohanty, Mumbai, India
Genre  - Thriller

Synopsis - After getting dismissed on medical grounds after an incident during deployment, Eric hates the fact that he is unable to serve his country anymore. His deafness has created a silent world for him, but his PTSD allows him to hear his favourite song. What he doesn’t know is the that the gunman who has been haunting his neighbourhood listens to the same song while going for his kill. What he also doesn’t know is that he calls the police about the killer, in his sleep. How the story unfolds is Eric’s unconscious second shot at his passion – saving lives.

The Gods made of Stone

Bronze Story Of The Year
Writer - Dheeraj Mittal, New Delhi, India
Genre - Drama

Synopsis: "You might know the story of the crow who used the stones to quench his thirst. But this is the story of one of those stones.

The stone believes there’s always a way to be more than what you’re. He is taken by a potter and given the form of a God. But an earthquake separates him from the idol and his stature falls. That’s when his view of the world changes. The events that come to pass after this makes one thing certain - if to dust you are born, to dust you’ll turn."

LHR to BOM

#5 Story Of The Year
Writer - Krunal Patel, Barrie, Canada
Genre - Drama

Synopsis: Sheshank Palkar is an important figure in the scientific community, living in London. He has just received a call from Mumbai from his adoptive mother that his adoptive father has passed away, and he has to come home to perform the last rites. He hasn’t seen them since he stormed off after a bitter argument with his adoptive father 16 years ago. Against his wishes, he makes the trip to Mumbai, not knowing what lessons and revelations await him.

A case for creationism

Bronze Think Piece Of The Year
Writer - Param Shah, Pune, India

Synopsis: The popular predisposition of evolution theory as the fundamental and scientifically aligned explanation for the existence of all complex and simple life forms has created a rift between the creationists and the evolutionists. The creationists receive a severe backlash from the masses due to the theory's contentious adherence to biblical narratives and acceptance of a creator. The unfair labeling of creationism as a religious conspiracy theory now exempts it from any chance to defend itself, even on the grounds of sound scientific and logical evidence.

The Utility of Conspiracy Theories in an Era of Hidden Truths and Obfuscation

#5 Think Piece Of The Year
Writer - Ujwal Nanavati, Pune, India

Synopsis: ‘Conspiracy theory’ is one of those terms that invoke derision. However, these much-maligned theories have utility beyond psychological solace, especially in a narrative-controlled world in which the narrative itself is controlled by a few. If conspiracy theories, like sunshine, can be a disinfectant or at least an enabler of disinfection, they should be objectively investigated, without being actively encouraged. We owe truth that much.  

Breath

Gold Script Of The Year
Writer - Srijan Sinha, Patna, India
Genre - Drama

Synopsis - India, 2021. The COVID pandemic is in full force, and there is a dire shortage of oxygen in the country’s overwhelmed medical system. In the thick of it is Dr. Akshay Patharia, the stoic medical director of his city’s biggest hospital. Between breaking bad news to grieving patients and negotiating with crooked ministers, Patharia’s shoulders are burdened by the heaviest of responsibilities. Unfortunately for those around him, these responsibilities will bring out the worst in him. Is it his own volition or harsh reality which coerces him to play the antagonist in the story of everyone he comes across?

Cancel

Bronze Script Of The Year
Writer - Siddhant Gautam, Mumbai, India
Genre - Drama

Synopsis: Cancel is the story of Akshay, who lives in a dysfunctional household which does not appreciate his aspirations of becoming an actor. When his closest friend lands a role that Akshay wanted so desperately, a role that could have changed his life for the better, naturally, Akshay is deeply affected. He is enraged about missing out on the role. His rage fuels him to make a completely unforgivable move against his friend.

The Most Evil Corporation

#5 Script Of The Year
Writer - Seva Gaddala, Hyderabad, India
Genre - Historical Drama

Synopsis: Three colleagues at a corporate costume party in London try to convince a conscientious colleague their corporation is not evil. The conscientious colleague reminds them their corrupt corporation, running things from a continent away was allowed to run rampant because Parliament MPs owned shares. He adds it did nothing nor eased oppressive demands on the locals as millions perished in the famine. The corporation’s army also takes over that country. Another partygoer, a clairvoyant, predicts it will become too corrupt to run itself, the government will take over, and rule the country.The name of the corporation -East India Company.

Adhira

Gold Story Of The Year
Writer - Tamanna Mohanty, Mumbai, India
Genre  - Drama

Synopsis - Set in the time before kings came to rule, the story follows the life of Adhira, a young village girl. She is a bubbly little kid who loves to chase goats and lends a helping hand for anything and everything. And all the villagers admire her for her innocence. However, as she grows up, perplexing events start to take place. Even the villagers’ affectionate behaviour seems dubious. Trying to unravel the mystery, Adhira finally gets to know her secret, but she doesn’t seem to be happy about it...and raises a storm, quite literally!

Kaikeyi - The Misunderstood Queen

Bronze Story Of The Year
Writer - Dheeraj Mittal, New Delhi, India
Genre - Historical Drama

Synopsis: Kaikeyi is remembered as the queen forsaken for exiling Lord Ram; as the jealous mother who conspired to sit his son on the throne; and as the wife who became the reason for the death of her husband. But there’s much more to the story. A brave warrior, she saved her husband’s life on the battlefield. But then why does Kaikeyi end up betraying the people of Ayodhya, betraying the son she loved so much. And why has the burden of forgiveness only been shouldered by women? Why have the Gods and men saved mercy for themselves only, using women as their mere puppets.

Heart of Glass

#5 Story Of The Year
Writer - Shruti Pandey, Bettiah, India
Genre - Sci-Fi

Synopsis: Everett doesn’t believe in miracles. Not when his own life is such a big tragedy. But he is in for a big surprise. Because waiting for him is a gift. For the nine year old boy, all his dreams are about to come true. This is the story of a boy who discovers the true meaning of superpowers. This journey is filled with ‘time-less’ miracles; a boy who re-discovers hope, and a mirror that always reflects the good path. But don’t be fooled. This is no ordinary mirror. This mirror takes you places. This mirror can make you a hero with a thousand lives.

Conflict & Conscience - the Right to Die

Gold Think Piece Of The Year
Writer - Prabhu Viswanathan, Chennai, India

Synopsis - The "right to die" is a current, hotly contested issue that also serves as the catalyst for a puzzling personal and societal conflict. Any argument starts with the use of the word "right," however "choice" might be a better alternative. Despite the fact that birth itself is not a choice for us as individuals, the "right to life" has long been a key premise of the laws that regulate human existence. In addition to discussing the topic from a variety of perspectives—religious, medical, emotional, and legal—this essay also briefly examines the author's own inner dilemma.

Grace with Greys

Bronze Think Piece Of The Year
Writer - Bina Jeyabalan, Hyderabad, Indi

Synopsis: Grace with Greys is a brief look into the life of a woman's perceptions, views, and ideologies about herself, her family, her friends, and society. Humour, sanctioned sarcasm, and kindness, while addressing changes and opinions is what this is all about. The changes we go through and the changes we see in ourselves are one thing. Then there are the changes you address in yourself while seeing them in others. Grace with Greys takes a fun look at it all. Contradicting with comfort while growing, is one way we can evolve into better versions of ourselves.

Choose your Conflicts Wisely

#5 Think Piece Of The Year
Writer - Ujwal Nanavati, Pune, India

Synopsis: In every field, the opponents we face are already chosen and, more importantly, unrelated to us. This relentless pursuit of external standards has two negative effects: (a) it leads to conflict with everyone around us, including potential partners; and (b) it takes our attention away from a better and more deserving standard — our own selves. But does focusing on oneself to create goals imply being egotistical and uncaring, and does it set us up for failure as it is typically understood? Actually, the reverse is true. It might be the only way for us to perform at our peak potential.

Strange Encounter

Gold Script Of The Year
Writer - Tasneem Lokhandwala, Mumbai, India

Synopsis - Ankita has reached a major cross-road in her life. With the odds stacked against her, she has to make a decision that could impact the rest of her life. Should she go back to the man who beat her constantly in the name of love, without whom she would be completely alone in a new city? Or should she find a new path for herself - a path that is studded with daggers at every end. In the midst of her dilemma, she meets a stranger who helps her find herself once again.

Lucky Or Not

Bronze Script Of The Year
Writer - Bhavya Kakkad, Rajkot, India

Synopsis: Rekha, a single mother, dares to dream beyond her poverty - meet superstar Rohit Kumar. Her innocent 10 year old son, Nishkama decides to fulfill her dream when he sees an advertisement where lucky winners get a ticket to Rohit's film's premiere and a meet with him. Along the way, he learns a lot about life the hard way. Are they lucky enough to win the ticket? The end result forces Rekha to make a hard choice that she thought she would never make and re-evaluate the definition of luck itself.

1983 July 22

#5 Script Of The Year
Writer - Milan Antony, Thrissur, India

Synopsis: A 12 year old srilankan tamil boy pursue his dream of having an actual brother (own) in the middle of Eelam war lV.

4:01

Gold Story Of The Year
Writer - Anika Sharma, Gurgaon, India

Synopsis - Galya Chagnes is supposed to die today. But that’s okay- after-all, she has lived for half a millennia. In the Empire, death isn’t random or sudden- it’s scripted. After all a perfect society wouldn’t be quite perfect if its plagued by the trivialities of grief and uncertainty. Before you die, you get to relieve a memory of your choice, at any time and any place, for the duration of your favourite song. As Galya finds herself in an unfamiliar place and time, she’s forced to confront her reality and question the very nature of her existence.

Until it's Time

Bronze Story Of The Year
Writer - Sharanya Harish, Bangalore, India

Synopsis: Shashi, a divorced father tries his best to convince his only daughter to live with him a little longer. He takes help from his long-time-buddy pulling time tested tricks to get her to stay with him and not move for her education. Will he be able to convince her? It’s time to find out.

Flight to Anywhere

#5 Story Of The Year
Writer - Krishnakant Jonnalgadda, Mumbai, India

Synopsis: Shyam was forced to join his father to work as a manual scavenger. He loathes the inhuman work and the caste bias that brackets them to do it. He is a dreamer, who is working towards an escape to a better life. But despite his hatred for his work, he likes to start work at the exact same time everyday for a specific reason. He feels it motivates him and reinforces his grit towards his goal. What is this reason that fuels his dreams to fly?

Survival Training

Gold Script Of The Year
Writer - John Ilango, Bangalore, India

Synopsis - June 1975, Arun, a 17 year old Indian Army aspirant from a poor home in a small town in rural Tamil Nadu finds himself at the Service Selection Board (SSB) at Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh going through the final rounds of his medical tests before being cleared to join the National Defense Academy. Upon completion he is informed that he has failed the medical tests as he is underweight by 2 kilos and that he can either forego his application or return anytime within the next 7 days to clear his medicals, provided he meets the weight requirement. With limited time, minimal funds and no resources, a young man who counts the money in his wallet after paying for every cup of tea, who his whole life has never eaten nor asked for a morsel of food more than what he was served so that his whole family could eat, has to find a way now in the little time he has to gain the 2 kilos that will determine his fate. However little does he know the required gluttony is only the drop that will ripple into the problems to come.

Dalgona Coffee

Bronze Script Of The Year
Writer - Arun Thangavel, Karur, India

Synopsis: Looking at the precarious journey of a migrant worker’s family, an intern reporter accompanied by his senior camera man tries to transport a family of migrant workers across the interstate border. 

Pneuma

#5 Script Of The Year
Writer - Arza Safiya, Bangalore, India

Synopsis: The rich and intelligent son of the great business tycoon Bharat Noronha, is dealing with the loss of his mother. He realizes that he can bring his mother back from the dead.The smart human that he is nearly succeeds in bringing her back. Unfortunately,he realizes that something is not quite right. Bharat now struggles to get his experiment right and perfect, as he sees no other way to cope with his loss.

The Cupid Way

Gold Script Of The Year
Writer - Kashyap Pavra, Ahmedabad

Synopsis - Rahul a college guy has crush on Sunaina, but he lacks the skills to impress her, but luckily the god of love, Cupid himself has decided to help Rahul. The cupid feels that today's generation has become dependent on technology so much that the old ways have been forgotten, which used to work like charm and showed affection in a glorious way. So by using Cupid's way of love, Rahul tries to impress Sunaina

War, or Peace?

Bronze Script Of The Year
Writer - Vishal Tiwari, Howrah

Synopsis: Arjun, a charming guy with loads of followers gets too self-aware as he reaches to a book store for a blind date with Disha set up by his friends. Disha, an asocial woman without any social media account or a phone number waits for him near the Tolstoy's section reading war and peace. After a humble greeting they grab a cuppa and sit down together in a coffee shop located in the store. Every day they go up to the book store after their respective shifts and put the letters inside the book... until the day someone finally buys it (if anyone ever does so)

To Bae or Not to Bae

#5 Script Of The Year
Writer - Sharada S, Mumbai

Synopsis: Ansh, a GenX collegian and successful YouTuber, has a huge crush on his fellow mate, Zeel. His friends label her ‘uncool’ due to her absence on social media. That same fateful night, in his dream, he time travels to a dystopian future, where collegians rate each other on superfluous basis. Ansh experiences firsthand a social boycott when his ‘smart’ device fails. In his forced isolation, he encounters Zeel, who is also a technological outcast. Later, when his device is repaired, Artificial Intelligence warns him that she belongs to the ‘loser’ category. Any contact with her would lower his social standing. It piques her interest and gives her an idea for her own Psychology project. He has made a friend, ‘offline’.

Songs of Innocence

Gold Script Of The Year
Writer - Smera Juneja, Mumbai

Synopsis - Somil, a ten-year-old boy is listening to a Spanish song while writing down some words in a book. Somil blushes and runs out to the bakery to Mrs. D’Souza and pleads her to teach him English. At first she is reluctant but eventually agrees. Next morning, Somil is well dressed and anxious. But she looks at him blankly and reveals that she is French and doesn’t understand English properly. Somil laughs nervously and runs away. We later see that Somil listening to a French Opera song, trying to learn the words.

The Blind Sight

#5 Script Of The Year
Writer - Manpreet Dhami, Barabanki

Synopsis - A guy and a girl in their early days of relationship go to a park to spend some quality time. But there is a fear of people intruding their privacy which brings awkwardness between them .They try to ignore the people around them to make sure that the weird situation thus created does not affect them. On failing , they come up with their own unique way to bypass their fear.

Mirza's Friend Ghalib

Gold Script Of The Year
Writer - Anupam Sen Gupta, New Delhi

Synopsis - Mirza 54, is an aspirational film maker who works with a small stationery shop in the business district of Mumbai as a helper to support himself. He is an introvert and doesn't have friends or acquaintances. He doesn't speak at all. The only time he does is when he talks to an unknown friend and mentor on the phone at night and discusses his scripts. As he doesn't open his door one day till late morning, the neighbours of the slum call the police and open to find Mirza dead. After the post-mortem, the police find no foul play but remain confused that Mirza's phone never had any connection.

Papa ki Coffee

#5 Script Of The Year
Writer - Arun Duvva, Bangalore

Synopsis - The ever-smiling and goofy Mr. Jain always wanted his last rites to be performed in Dwarka. The ever - smiling and goofy son, Ajit Jain, wants to fulfil his goofy father's request. However, the Universe has failed his plans to keep the dead Mr. Jain close to what he always loved the most.