Mumbai, Maharashtra Mar 4, 2026 (Issuewire.com) - Indian animation director and musical artist Hrishtune has been honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Cine Award 2025 for Best Animation Film for his animated feature “Rabby and the Tortue (HFTGS)”. The recognition was announced as part of the 2025 edition of the Dadasaheb Phalke Cine Awards, which acknowledge notable creative contributions across Indian cinema and digital storytelling.
“Rabby and the Tortue (HFTGS)” brings back the classic rivals — the rabbit and the turtle — in an unseen adventure centered around environmental awareness and the importance of saving trees. The film reimagines the timeless rivalry within a contemporary narrative that highlights responsibility, unity, and resilience. The project took three years to complete, reflecting detailed craftsmanship in animation, storytelling, and production design.
The film is a production of Quarterheads Studio, an India-based creative studio owned by Hrishtune. Through the studio, he develops independent animated projects that integrate cinematic storytelling with music-driven narratives.
An integral part of the film is its original song titled “I Feel Stronger,” an inspiring and energetic composition created in collaboration with a German creative team. The song was designed and produced in Germany under Rox Studio in Frankfurt.
The German team includes:
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Kara Molnar, singer and melody composer
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Marius Closca, instrumental arranger
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Vincent Rox, sound engineer, music composer, and music producer
The lyrics of “I Feel Stronger” were written by Ashwin Karthik and Hrishtune (Hrishikesh Jadhav). Ashwin Karthik, an engineer by profession, is also an author known for his books “Faceless: The Mystery of the Carved Arrow” and “From the Womb of Darkness: Holding the Prophecy.”
Hrishtune, born Hrishikesh Jadhav in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, is an Indian animation director, writer, musical artist, and visual storyteller. He is recognized for creating emotionally driven animated works that combine music and cinematic storytelling. His projects often focus on meaningful themes, blending visual depth with narrative purpose.
The recognition for “Rabby and the Tortue (HFTGS)” marks a significant milestone in his creative journey and highlights his contribution to independent animation and international artistic collaboration.
The Dadasaheb Phalke Cine Awards continue to serve as a platform honoring artistic excellence across film, television, and digital media, celebrating creators who bring originality and innovation to storytelling.
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