Joshy Benedict Wins Second National Award for 'Touched As Water'

Doha, Qatar Jul 19, 2026 ALN: Anime filmmaker Joshy Benedict has done it again. Two years after winning his maiden National Film Award for his animated short 'A Coconut Tree,' the Kozhikode-based filmmaker has brought home another national honour. At the 72nd National Film Awards, Joshy was named Best Animation Director for his nine-minute animated silent short 'Touched As Water,' a moving story of brotherhood, grief and the lingering pain of loss.

For Joshy, the recognition is another affirmation that animation is far more than a medium for children's entertainment. "I believe animation has the power to connect with audiences of all ages. Stories rooted in family, relationships and emotions can be told very effectively through this medium," Joshy tells. "I'm happy that my work has been recognised for the second time. I have been in this industry for the past 20 years, and the scope of animation has grown tremendously across the world. We are also seeing encouraging changes in India."

Interestingly, 'Touched As Water' is yet to reach a wider audience. Joshy says he is still exploring the best way to distribute and promote the film. The nine-minute short follows the intertwined lives of a man living with illness and the sibling whose life remains bound to him, exploring themes of dependence, separation and emotional healing. This narrative resonates deeply with many viewers, reflecting universal experiences of love, loss, and the complex dynamics of familial relationships.

While 'A Coconut Tree' drew inspiration from everyday stories people encounter around them, 'Touched As Water' has a far more personal origin. "A Coconut Tree was inspired by instances of coconut trees being burned in my village. Touched as Water, though not consciously, evolved from a personal story," he said. "The anime speaks about struggles and loss, while also exploring the emotional transition experienced by the person left behind." This personal connection adds a layer of authenticity to the film, allowing audiences to engage with its themes on a more profound level.

Joshy's insight into the capabilities of animation reveals a broader understanding of the medium's potential. "Animation allows filmmakers to explore emotions and ideas in ways that live-action cinema often cannot. There are so many things animation can express that are difficult to achieve in live-action films. In animation, there are virtually no limitations. In Touched As Water, we take the storytelling into a fantasy space towards the end. Animation makes that possible. For me, it is the best medium to tell stories like these." This perspective is crucial as it underscores animation's versatility and its ability to transcend conventional storytelling methods.

Despite the medium's immense creative possibilities, Joshy feels India still has a long way to go before animation receives the recognition it enjoys in countries such as Japan, France and South Korea. In these countries, animation is often celebrated as a serious art form, capable of addressing complex themes and narratives that resonate with adult audiences. However, in India, the perception of animation is still largely tied to children's content, limiting its potential for broader artistic expression.

"In our society, many people still think animation is only for children. But animation is a medium that can deal with deeply serious and complex themes. That's exactly what creators across the world are doing. Even Touched As Water is not made for children, it deals with difficult, emotionally intense subjects," Joshy explains. This perception poses a challenge for filmmakers like him who wish to explore more mature themes through animation.

However, Joshy sees signs of change. "A lot of experimentation is happening in animation across the world, and we're beginning to see some exciting work emerge in India as well,” he said. This shift reflects a growing recognition of animation's potential as a serious artistic medium within the Indian film industry. As more filmmakers venture into this space, audiences may begin to appreciate the depth and complexity that animated stories can offer.

In addition to his accolades, Joshy Benedict's journey as a filmmaker is marked by his dedication to pushing the boundaries of animation in India. His work not only highlights the emotional depth that can be conveyed through animated storytelling but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring animators and filmmakers in the country. The recognition he has received at the National Film Awards is a testament to his commitment to his craft and his belief in the transformative power of animation.

As the Indian animation industry continues to evolve, it is essential for creators like Joshy to advocate for broader acceptance and understanding of animation as a legitimate and impactful medium. By sharing personal stories and addressing universal themes, filmmakers can help shift perceptions and expand the audience for animated works. The success of 'Touched As Water' could serve as a catalyst for further exploration of serious themes in Indian animation, paving the way for future filmmakers to tell their stories through this dynamic medium.

In conclusion, Joshy Benedict's recent achievement at the 72nd National Film Awards not only highlights his individual talent but also sheds light on the evolving landscape of animation in India. As the industry grows and diversifies, it is crucial for audiences to embrace the potential of animation to tell complex, meaningful stories that resonate across age groups. Through his work, Joshy is not just creating art; he is contributing to a broader cultural conversation about the value of animation as a serious form of storytelling.

The journey of animation in India has been marked by various phases of development since its inception. Historically, the Indian animation industry has faced challenges such as limited funding, lack of infrastructure, and a prevailing perception that animation is primarily for children. However, with the advent of digital technology and a growing interest in storytelling through animation, there has been a gradual shift in this narrative.

In recent years, the Indian animation landscape has witnessed a surge in creativity and innovation. New platforms for distribution, such as streaming services, have opened up avenues for animated content that reaches audiences beyond traditional television. This has allowed filmmakers like Joshy to explore more nuanced and mature themes, catering to a demographic that appreciates animation as a valid form of artistic expression.

Moreover, international collaborations and co-productions have further enhanced the quality and scope of Indian animation. Filmmakers are now able to access global resources, talent, and expertise, leading to the creation of high-quality animated films that can compete on an international stage. This trend not only elevates the standards of Indian animation but also encourages local artists to push their creative boundaries.

As the animation industry continues to grow, there is also an increasing demand for skilled professionals. Educational institutions are beginning to recognize the importance of animation in storytelling and are incorporating it into their curricula. This focus on education is essential for nurturing the next generation of animators, ensuring that they are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in this evolving industry.

Furthermore, the cultural narratives that are unique to India can find a voice through animation. Stories from folklore, mythology, and contemporary society can be explored in ways that resonate with both local and global audiences. By tapping into these rich narratives, filmmakers can create works that not only entertain but also provoke thought and reflection on societal issues.

In light of these developments, Joshy Benedict's achievements serve as a beacon of hope for the future of animation in India. His work exemplifies the potential of animation to convey profound messages and engage with complex themes, challenging the traditional notions of what animated films can achieve. As more filmmakers like Joshy emerge, the Indian animation landscape is poised for a renaissance, one that embraces diversity in storytelling and recognizes the medium's capability to reflect the intricacies of human experience.

In summary, Joshy Benedict's recognition at the National Film Awards is not just a personal triumph; it symbolizes a broader movement within the Indian animation industry. As the barriers of perception are gradually dismantled, there is a growing appreciation for the artistic merit of animation. The success of 'Touched As Water' could very well inspire a new wave of animated storytelling in India, one that resonates with audiences and elevates the medium to new heights.