Papua New Guinea chose “Papabuka” as its first submission to the Academy Awards, when the Pacific Nation first entered the Oscars international feature film category.
Directed by internationally acclaimed Indian filmmaker Bijukumar Damodaran (Shanghai winner Trees under the Sun), Papabuka leads countless World War II stories that link India with Papua’s New Guinea, and two Indian historians who guide shared sacrifices and humanity.
This timing is particularly iconic and coincides with Papua New Guinea’s 50th year independence.
The milestone announcement was made by Belden Norman Nama, Minister of Tourism and Culture in Papua New Guinea, Executive Director of the National Cultural Commission, Stephen Enom Kiranda and Don Niles of the PNG Oscar Selection Committee.
“This is a historic moment in Papua New Guinea cinema,” Niles said. “‘Papabuka’ embodies our stories, traditions and artistic voices and is proud to present it to the world through the Academy Awards platform. ”
“The film is a homage to the shared history between India and Papua New Guinea and symbolizes cultural resilience and cross-border collaboration,” Damodalan said. “It’s a humble honor to be the first Oscar submission from PNG during the 50th year of independence.”
Papua’s New Guinea India co-producers Noelen Taura Unum (NAFA Productions), Akshkamal Parija (Akshay Parija Productions), PA Ranjit (Neram Productions), and Prakash Bear (Silicon Media).
The ensemble cast will be led by Papua New Guinea’s 85-year-old tribal leader, Sign Boboro, along with Indian actors Ritabari Chakraborty and Prakash Bear. Supported cast includes John Psyche, Barbara Anatu, Jacob Obli, Sandra Douma and Max Maso PPC.
The technical team is scored by three-time Grammy winner Ricky Kej, featuring film director Yedo Ladakrishnan and co-screenwriter Daniel Jonaldagut.
Producer Wunum said, “Papabuka is not just a film, but a cultural capacity building project. Over 40 students from the university work with international crews and gain practical experience in key departments such as orientation, cinematography, sound and art direction.
“Papabuka” is scheduled to be released in Papua New Guinea on September 19, 2025, followed by an international festival screening in Los Angeles and an Oscar campaign event.
Producer Pariya said, “I feel very privileged to be part of the remarkable film “Papa Buka,” directed by multiple Indian national award-winning filmmaker Bijukumar Damodalan. 2026. ”
Producer Pa Ranjith added: “This recognition is an important milestone that reflects the passion and creativity of a storyteller. It is an honor to be able to stand with creators who support this journey and lead this story to the global stage.”
Actor and producer Prakash Bear said: “As an actor and producer, we are proud that “Papabuka” connects India with New Guinea, Papua, through film, history and human connections.
Composer Ricky Kezi, who serves as the UN’s goodwill ambassador, states the film’s universal theme:
