Veteran actor Deepak Tijori, who has been a steady figure in the Indian film industry for over three decades, has finally earned his first-ever Best Actor nomination—and that too on an international platform. Tijori has been nominated at the Independent Short Awards in Los Angeles, California, for his lead role in the short film “Echoes of Us”, directed by Joe Rajan.
DEEPAK TIJORI EARNS FIRST-EVER BEST ACTOR NOMINATION AT INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL – AFTER 35 YEARS… Actor #DeepakTijori has received his first-ever Best Actor nomination at the Independent Short Awards in #LosAngeles, #California, for his powerful performance in #EchoesOfUs,… pic.twitter.com/LlVCRiWtS2
— taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) July 7, 2025
Deepak Tijori Bags First-Ever Best Actor Nomination at International Film Festival After 35 Years in Industry
The nomination marks a deeply emotional milestone in Tijori’s career. Despite appearing in a range of impactful roles since the early 1990s, the actor had never been nominated for an award, even for a supporting role, in his home country.
I can’t Thank Joe Ranjan And Our Team Enough
“Feeling overwhelmed with this nomination at an international film festival,” Tijori said in a heartfelt statement. “I can’t thank Joe Rajan and our team enough for restoring my faith and helping make this nearly 35-year-long dream come true.”
The film also features Iulia Vantur, who marks her acting debut in Echoes of Us, playing a pivotal character alongside Tijori. The film is reportedly a moving exploration of human emotions, relationships, and redemption, and has struck a chord with critics and audiences alike on the international festival circuit.
Tijori, known for his roles in films like Aashiqui, Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, and Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa, has primarily stayed away from the spotlight in recent years. This nomination not only shines a light on his acting talent but also underscores the theme that recognition may be delayed, but never denied.
The Independent Short Awards are known for celebrating exceptional talent in short-format storytelling, and Tijori’s nomination has sparked a wave of appreciation from fans and colleagues in the Indian film fraternity.
The awards ceremony is set to take place later this year in Los Angeles.
