France, May 25 -- Sivan's award coincides with the much-anticipated return of Indian cinema, with one film in the main competition and three in the other categories.

It's his first time at Cannes in person and he has enjoyed the warm welcome.

"I think Cannes is easily the most popular of all festivals," Sivan tells RFI, reeling off a list of international events he's been to, from Sundance to Busan. What he likes most is the recognition Cannes offers to the technicians working behind the scenes.

Apart from a couple of international collaborations, it seems the world has been slow to appreciate his multiple talents.

This appears set to change thanks to the prestigious Pierre Angenieux prize awarded on Friday evening at a special cerem...