Bhubaneswar: The Government of Odisha’s Department of Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) has introduced Samarthya 2026, a national short film festival designed to celebrate the successes, challenges, and inspiring stories of individuals living with disabilities.

The festival invites filmmakers, producers, directors, media students, and independent creators nationwide to submit short films, each lasting up to five minutes, that focus on the achievements of successful persons with disabilities.

All entries must adhere to mandatory accessibility standards, which require films to include audio descriptions, sign language interpretation, and subtitles or closed captions, alongside highlighting the life and accomplishments of a person with a disability.

Submissions will be accepted through www.shortfilmfestodisha.in until July 7, 2026.

The evaluation of the films will take place on July 8, with winners to be announced on July 11.

Awards will be given in both national and Odisha-specific categories, and every participant will receive a certificate.

The festival was inaugurated with notable attendees, including disability rights advocate Jitendra Biswal, film producer Ramesh Barik, and actress Sheetal Patra. During the launch, SSEPD Deputy Secretary Sanyasi Behera emphasized the importance of accessibility in cinema, referencing the new accessibility guidelines established by the Centre, stating, “Cinema must be for all, and accessibility should be an integral part of every film.”