The jury said “For a film that is Brave, Respectful and Urgent, the International Feature Competition Jury wishes to give a special mention to Subina Shrestha's gut-wrenching portrayal of a woman's endless fight for the voiceless and disregarded victims of wartime sexual violence in her uncompromising film, DEVI.”

Jury comment: “Devi" by Subina Shrestha is a profound and moving documentary that captures the resilience and determination of Devi Khadka, a remarkable woman whose story exemplifies the power of human actions to make a positive difference. Director Shrestha crafted a standout and compelling portrayal of courage and determination by a modern-day hero who rose above being a victim of sexual violence to be the preeminent voice for women empowerment. Shrestha created a safe haven because of her empathy and ability to gain the trust of Devi Khadka to tell this important story that rape cannot be a weapon of war not can it be excused in war, a message must resonate across the different conflicts facing our world today. This inspiring narrative reinforces the essence of The Edge of Impact category, celebrating stories that illuminate the path to a brighter future through the lens of those who dare to make a difference.”

The jury said: "A searing and deeply personal portrait that examines the enduring scars of Nepal’s civil war. With its unfiltered lens the film captures the intersection of personal trauma and systemic failure. The stigma surrounding sexual violence, the conspiracy of silence and erasure of its history are unfortunately known to us all too well. This film is a powerful reminder that the path to justice is both deeply personal and inherently political."

Devi’s film is a deeply personal story—her story—where she, a survivor of sexual violence and a former Maoist combatant during the Nepalese civil war, raises her voice on behalf of all those women who cannot speak for themselves. Through the personal, she brings forth the collective.

The film shows how power can affect some, yet even political leaders in this case cannot fully intervene in the conflict or undo its consequences for women.

We honor this film because it reminds us that cinema is a window into dignity, memory, and resilience. We thank the director for showing us that in the voice and legacy of one woman, all women are represented. From Guadix, we send our applause in celebration of those who seek justice, hoping that they may begin to walk their own path finding dignity, understanding and comfort while they do so.