SAIFFF brings South Asian Cinema to Tampa, FL

The inaugural South Asian International Film Festival of Florida (SAIFFF) is poised to illuminate Tampa on April 19th and 20th, promising an unparalleled cinematic extravaganza. This landmark event celebrates the rich tapestry of South Asian cinema and culture, marking a significant milestone in the region’s cultural landscape.

The festival will showcase diverse, compelling films from across the South Asian diaspora, offering audiences a rare opportunity to immerse themselves in captivating narratives, vibrant visuals, and thought-provoking themes that define the region’s cinematic legacy. From gripping dramas to heartwarming comedies, poignant documentaries, and groundbreaking experimental films, the festival ensures something for every cinephile’s palate.

“We are thrilled to bring the South Asian International Film Festival to Tampa for the very first time,” said Hemant Dinkar, SAIFFF’s Founder and organizer. This festival serves as a platform to celebrate the rich cultural heritage and cinematic achievements of South Asia while fostering cross-cultural dialogue and understanding. With an exceptional lineup of films and engaging events, we aim to create an unforgettable experience for audiences and filmmakers alike.”

SAIFFF will host the North American premiere of the Hindi film ‘THE LOST GIRLS’, portraying the story of Suhani, a 5-year-old separated during the 1984 Sikh riots, surviving 15 years with strangers, haunted by memories until she embarks on a journey to find her true identity and family. Additionally, the festival will feature Bollywood actor Omy Vaidya’s Marathi film ‘Aaichya Gavat Marathi Bol’, showcasing the unexpected journey of Samar, who experiences twists and turns when he returns to India from America.  SAIFFF is also proud to present the English feature film”The Peace Activists”, which intertwines Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. in a compelling narrative, highlighting their shared commitment to peace, non-violence, and civil disobedience. Nishi Chawla’s film also draws upon the influence of philosopher Thoreau on both leaders, transcending racial boundaries with MLK’s activism and Gandhi’s advocacy. Through philosophical reflection, the movie prompts viewers to reconsider the relevance of peace and non-violence amidst contemporary global challenges. In essence, it reexamines these principles in a world still plagued by conflict, offering profound insights into their enduring significance

Moreover, SAIFFF will present a lineup of short and feature films from Pakistan, Nepal, the UK, and the USA, including shorts like ‘I am not down’, ‘The Beginning’, ‘Once upon a time in Lahore’, ‘Jamun ka darakht’, and ‘Dancing in Fire’, a documentary film from Nepal.

SAIFFF will also promote local filmmakers by showcasing their work during the two-day festival. This includes the North American premiere of filmmaker Anjani Pandey’s feature film Proof of Concept and short films such as Edward Jayraj’s Vikki and Ron Milton’s The Slice of Hope. The festival will present screenings of films from around the world, with a focus on narratives and documentaries from India, the UK, Canada, Pakistan, and Nepal.

Anticipation is high as SAIFFF expects attendance from Bollywood personalities like Omy Vaidya and Yashpal Sharma, with hopes of confirmation from other renowned actors and actresses. Alongside film screenings, the festival will feature insightful panel discussions, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and special events highlighting various aspects of South Asian cinema and culture, offering attendees networking opportunities with industry professionals.

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this historic occasion. Join us in Tampa on April 19th and 20th for an unforgettable cinematic journey. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.SAIFFF.org