First Ottawa Indian Film Festival Awards was held in Ottawa at Lansdowne Complex and Hilton Lac Leamy from May 18 to 21, 2017. The objective was to celebrate and promote Indian cinema in Ottawa and build a stronger link through the art of cinema. 16 films (short, documentary and feature) were screened at the Cineplex with local talents taking the Aberdeen Stage to showcase fashion, song and dance. The other activities included industry panel discussions, performances, talent workshops, competitions, awards, red carpet gala and after-parties.

The event concluded with announcement of awards at the Hilton Lac Leamy on May 21, 2017. Alifa was judged the best film and Mr Nagesh Bhonsle of Nati Khel the best director. Best screenwriting went to Ms Khushboo Ranka & Mr Vinay Shukla of An Insignificant Man and Ms Ratna Pathak was given best actor for Lipstick under my Burkha. High Commissioner H.E. Mr Vikas Swarup addressed the gathering during the ceremony.

Oiffa was well visited and praised by the attendees who landed in a small village of Bollywood theme.

Ottawa

23.5.17