Papua New Guinea’s first-ever Oscar entry film ‘Papa Buka’ had its Grand premiering on Thursday night 18th September 2025 at Paradise Cinema, Vision City, Port Moresby. The premiering marked a double celebration as not only as an Oscar entry but also comes two days after the country celebrated its 50th Independence Anniversary. Directed by internationally acclaimed filmmaker Dr. Biju (Bijukumar Damodaran), Papa Buka is a collaboration between Papua New Guinea and India. The production team included Neolene Taula Wunum (PNG), Askay Kumar Parija, Pa Ranjith, and Prakash Bare (india). The cast also included talent from both India and PNG: Ritabhari Chakraborty and Prakash Bare (India), Sine Boboro, an 85-year-old whose role has been celebrated globally and John Sike (PNG). The music score was by Grammy-Award winning musician Ricky Rej. The film explored the untold connection between PNG and India during the second world war – a time when many Indian soldiers who served in the British army lost their lives and were buried in PNG – countless unfortunately unidentified. The film blended Tok Pisin, Hindi, Bengali and English dialogues brilliantly reflecting its intercultural themes. Individuals present included: Prime Minister James Marape, Governor for WNB, Sasindran Muthuvel, U.S Ambassador to PNG, Ann Marie Yastishock, Executive Director for National Cultural Commission, Steven Kilanda, High Commissioner of India to PNG, Ambassador Rajeev Kumar and other dignitaries. In his address, Dr. Biju shared his pride in representing PNG on the global stage. A medical doctor turned filmmaker, has won over 47 national and international awards and has been a key figure in many film festivals worldwide. He expressed gratitude for the support of the Papua New Guinea government and cultural institutions, calling this submission “a humble privilege.” Papa Buka is now being screened at Paradise Cinemas, Vision City as of 19th September 2025 to the general public.