Little Thomas bags 3 NYIFF 2025 nods; Rasika Dugal, Gulshan Devaiah nominated

Rasika Dugal

If you ask Rasika Dugal, there is nothing little about Little Thomas. She always knew that the film had a big heart, and now it turns out, it comes with big rewards too. The Anurag Kashyap-produced movie, starring Gulshan Devaiah and Dugal, has earned three nominations - Best Actor for the leads, and Best Debut Film for director Kaushal Oza - at the New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF) 2025.

(From left) Gulshan Devaiah, Hridansh Parekh and Rasika Dugal in the film

Dugal is delighted to be recognised for her performance in the slice-of-life film that is set in Goa of the 1990s and follows the efforts of seven-year-old Thomas to bring his parents together. The actor says, "Playing Jessie Miranda was a fun experience. I am grateful that the work is being appreciated, and looking forward to the audience's response when the film will be screened at the festival. Film festival audiences are discerning, and it's always wonderful to receive their view of the work."

Though Devaiah pays little attention to awards, he admits it's gratifying to receive a nomination for "the sweetest film" in his 15-year career. "I don't think about awards or recognition when it comes to my work; I only focus on my personal journey as an actor. [But] I loved being part of this sweet film," he says.

Oza says he is thrilled to return to NYIFF after his short film The Miniaturist of Junagadh's (2022) premiere at the festival. "So, this time I am delighted that Little Thomas has been nominated at the same festival for the best debut film. What really puts the cherry on the cake is the nominations for both the actors!" he says.