Panaji, Goa: In a groundbreaking moment for the Indian entertainment industry, the acclaimed Hindi comedy-drama series, Panchayat 2, has clinched the prestigious first-ever OTT Award for Web Series at the 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.
Directed by Deepak Kumar Mishra and written by Chandan Kumar, Panchayat 2 follows the journey of Abhishek Tripathi, an urban graduate reluctantly navigating the role of Secretary at a decrepit Panchayat Office in the fictional village of Phulera, situated in Uttar Pradesh’s Ballia district.
Building on the success of its debut season, the second season delves deeper into Abhishek’s life in Phulera, presenting fresh challenges amidst village politics while he prepares for his CAT exams, striving for a corporate future. With relatable moments and abundant humor, the series candidly depicts the daily trials of village life, highlighting Abhishek’s evolving relationships with Pradhan, Vikas, Prahlad, and Manju Devi.
The OTT Award win for Panchayat 2 comes as the OTT industry in India experiences significant growth, with original content employing thousands of people. The Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Shr. Anurag Thakur, announced the awards during the inaugural function of the 54th IFFI, emphasizing the dynamic 28% annual growth rate in the sector.
Panchayat 2 stood out among formidable nominations, including Rocket Boys Season 1, Nirmal Pathak Ki Ghar Wapsi, and Human. The Jury Panel also unanimously recognized Rocket Boys Season 1 with a special mention.
With 32 entries spanning 10 languages from 15 OTT platforms, the competition showcased the vibrancy and excellence of digital content creation in India. Panchayat 2’s victory marks a significant milestone, highlighting the quality and impact of homegrown web series on the global stage.
