At the 2026 Berlin International Film Festival, Rima Das’s *Not A Hero* receives a prestigious Crystal Bear Special Mention, signaling global recognition for its subtle power. Actor Sukanya Boruah reveals how she had to let go of conventional, performance-heavy techniques to inhabit the film’s deeply internal, almost meditative tone.
Rima Das’ ‘Not A Hero’ has earned global attention after winning the Crystal Bear Special Mention in the Generation Kplus section at the 2026 Berlin International Film Festival. The coming-of-age drama follows a city boy who moves to his village to live with an aunt who dislikes him. As he builds new friendships, he begins to understand life, belonging, and himself. The film stars Sukanya Boruah, Bhuman Bhargav Das, and Mrinmoy Das.
Rima Das’ ‘Not A Hero’ wins at Berlinale 2026
In an exclusive interview with Variety India, Sukanya Boruah said the biggest challenge was not acting but unlearning. Boruah explained, “In commercial cinema, we are often taught to express more, to project emotions outward. But in her world, everything is internal and personal. The camera is so close, it sees even what you’re trying to hide.”Boruah added, “I had to trust stillness. I had to allow myself to just be instead of perform. That was challenging, but also very freeing.”When asked what it means for a children’s film to find recognition abroad, Boruah said it is not about Indian audiences lacking depth. “Indian audiences are deeply emotional and intuitive,” she said. “But it’s crazy how international audiences are so in love with cinema from all around the world and how they respect every piece of art.” Boruah believes the film’s international journey proves that stories are universal and that India also has space for such reflective cinema.
Sukanya Boruah on strength, silence, and honest storytelling
Boruah said the film pushed her to rethink her understanding of strength. “What it forced me to confront is that strength can be quiet,” she shared. “It can be the courage to feel out of place, to observe instead of control, to adapt instead of resist.”Boruah also addressed the risk of starting her career with a quiet film. “We live in a time where visibility often feels louder than substance. But I didn’t want to start my journey chasing noise,” she said. “Beginning with a film that trusts silence felt really honest to me.”For Boruah, ‘Not A Hero’ carries a clear message. “It shows that honest and simple stories are enough. We don’t always need big heroes or loud moments. Real people and real emotions can connect with audiences anywhere.”Assamese actor Sukanya Boruah is recognized for her work in ‘Nima Denzongpa’ (2021), ‘Not a Hero’ (2026), and the music video Zubeen Garg & Zublee Baruah: “Khaplang Khuplung” (2022).
