USA/India
Ektaa R Kapoor, co-founder of Balaji Telefilms, and comedian Vir Das achieved significant milestones at the 51st International Emmy Awards held in New York City on November 20, 2023.
Ektaa R Kapoor, renowned for her prolific contributions to the Indian entertainment industry, secured the prestigious International Emmy Directorate Award, making her the first Indian woman filmmaker to receive this esteemed recognition. As the co-founder of Balaji Telefilms, Kapoor has been a trailblazer since founding the production company in 1994. Her impactful storytelling has resonated with audiences, earning her the Padma Shri in 2020.
Expressing her joy, Kapoor stated, “I’m delighted to receive the prestigious Emmys Directorate Award! It brings me immense joy and happiness to be honored at a global scale, such as this. I have always wanted to tell stories because they give me a chance to be heard, seen, and represented.”
She further expressed gratitude for the audience’s love that has propelled her journey from television to films and OTT platforms. Kapoor’s unexpected trajectory stands as a testament to the power of the people’s love in India and beyond.
Comedian Vir Das, known for his sharp wit and versatile talent, clinched the International Emmy for Comedy for his Netflix special, “Vir Das: Landing.” Das, who began his career in stand-up comedy, expressed his gratitude on Instagram, sharing a photo with the trophy. “For India. For Indian comedy. Every breath, every word. Thank you to the International Emmy Awards for this incredible honor,” he wrote.
Das reflected on his journey, acknowledging the challenges and rewards of transitioning from crafting local stories to receiving global acclaim. He credited Netflix for playing a pivotal role in his growth and expressed excitement about exploring diverse narratives, from Noida to the International Emmys. In addition to his achievements in comedy, Das is a multifaceted artist who has made his mark in Hindi cinema with roles in films such as “Badmaash Company,” “Delhi Belly,” and “Go Goa Gone.”
The triumphs of Ektaa R Kapoor and Vir Das at the International Emmy Awards mark a significant moment for Indian talent, showcasing the industry’s global impact and recognition.