Mumbai: Actor Taha Shah Badussha has made a remarkable impression on the global stage by receiving the 'Influential Actor of the Year' award at Cannes 2025. He was honoured at the WIBA (World Influencers and Bloggers Awards) for his acclaimed performances in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s web series 'Heeramandi' and Gajendra Ahire’s film 'PARO'.
Sharing his joy on social media, Taha wrote, “Grateful for this global honor. Thank you, WIBA Awards!”
The film 'PARO' was screened at the prestigious Marché du Film during the Cannes Film Festival. Reflecting on the experience, Taha said, “Grateful and humbled to be part of a story that truly matters. It’s an honour to present 'PARO' at the Marché du Film, Festival de Cannes — a film that sparks an important conversation and reflects a powerful reality.” He added, “This opportunity to showcase our work on a global stage means the world to me. Truly thankful for the love, support, and belief that brought us here.”
Directed by Gajendra Ahire, 'PARO' highlights the harrowing plight of Paro brides — also known as Molki brides — who are trapped in a vicious cycle of bride-buying and modern slavery. In the film, Taha portrays Rashid, a husband who empathises deeply with the women ensnared in this system. The movie is produced by Trupti Bhoir under Trupti Bhoir Filmss and Sandesh Sharada International Pvt. Ltd and is also slated for screening at Oxford University.
In 'Heeramandi', Taha captured hearts nationwide with his role as Tajdar Balloch, a passionate and romantic Nawab. As the web series celebrated its first anniversary on May 1, 2025, Taha shared an emotional tribute to filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, expressing his gratitude.
“Sanjay sir, thank you for believing in me. For giving me Tajdar. For changing my life in ways words can never fully capture. You are not just a filmmaker but you are a dream-giver. I will carry your faith in me like a light for the rest of my life,” he wrote on Instagram.
With IANS inputs