Representation of brown talent across multiple disciplines has always been a topic of debate. From awards shows lacking diversity in their nominations to using equal representation solely as a gimmick, it’s a problem that is deeply ingrained—globally. Breaking the glass ceiling and creating a much needed conversation in the society about equal representation is the South Asian Film Festival Of America. Hosted and presented by Product Of Culture (POC) a women-of-colour founded and funded organisation dedicated to amplifying brown brands and voices, the film festival returns this year for its 4th edition. The South Asian Film Festival Of America not only showcases diversity, creativity and a multi-hyphenated identity but also places itself as a platform for South Asians across the globe to share their experiences and narratives in the form of films, web series, music and more.
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The month-long, culture-forward fest will be held from Feb 27 till March 21 and will be entirely digitally for the first time ever. Nearly 70 projects will be shown, some of which will be followed up with a Q&A session with the cast and crew. All the films and series will feature and represent producers, directors, actors, and musical talent from different parts of the world—think countries like Bangladesh, Australia, Canada, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Pakistan, Singapore, United Kingdom, and the United States of America. See the full schedule of the film screening selections here.
Swipe through for a look at some of the movies that are slated for an official screening at the festival:
Invalid slider id. Master Slider ID must be a valid number.Archana Jain, Founder and Executive Director of Product Of Culture (POC) shares, “With each year, we look forward to furthering the narrative of diaspora, immigrant South Asian creatives and culture in the United States, and eventually the world. History has repeatedly proven the importance of great storytelling and the influence it has on social movements, challenging cultural narratives and inspiring dialogue. Art makes culture approachable.”
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The festival will be followed with a digital pop-up shop of South-Asian led brands and interactive pop-up events which will focus the spotlight on supporting minority-owned brands and small businesses. Another interesting addition to this line-up will be a hard-cover book featuring 110 artworks from the diaspora and immigrant South Asian artists from around the globe. This exclusive high-end art table book will be shipped globally and kept in stock for public and attendees to purchase. Now that’s what we call the right representation of diversity!
Photographs: Instagram, Shutterstock
