The New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF), North America’s premier festival celebrating Indian cinema, is set to honor Shabana Azmi’s illustrious 50-year cinematic journey in its 24th edition. Running from May 31 to June 2, the festival will showcase 49 films, including narrative features, documentaries, and shorts, featuring esteemed talents such as Amitabh Bachchan and Naseeruddin Shah.
The landmark anniversary of Azmi’s cinematic debut will be marked by a special event, featuring a screening of the acclaimed 1996 film Fire, directed by Deepa Mehta. The film explores bold themes that cemented Azmi’s place as a trailblazing figure in Indian cinema.
“I am heartened by the progress the New York Indian Film Festival has made over the years in leaps and bounds,” said Azmi, who has been associated with the festival since its inception. “I am happy that my 50th year is being celebrated at the NYIFF, and I look forward to it.”
Azmi, 73, will discuss her journey from her debut in Shyam Benegal’s Ankur, to her extensive body of work, which includes five National Film Awards and numerous international accolades. Her work extends beyond cinema, as a staunch advocate for social justice, particularly for women’s and underprivileged rights, a cause she continues to champion.
In addition to Fire, the festival will highlight other key films from Azmi’s career, including international collaborations such as Midnight’s Children and The Reluctant Fundamentalist. Azmi’s recent roles in films like Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani and Ghoomer reaffirm her diverse range and staying power in the industry.
The NYIFF, presented by the Indo-American Arts Council (IAAC), will open with Dear Jassi by Indian-American filmmaker Tarsem Singh, and close with Mrs, starring Sanya Malhotra and directed by Arati Kadav.
Other highlights include The Umesh Chronicles, starring Amitabh Bachchan and Vivek Gomber, Naseeruddin Shah’s short film Khidki, and Yellow Bus, an American debut film by Wendy Bednarz starring Tannishtha Chatterjee.
Dr. Nirmal Mattoo, Chairman of the IAAC, emphasized the festival’s role in promoting Indian cinema globally, adding, “NYIFF offers a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the diverse cinematic voices emerging from India today.”
Festival director Aseem Chhabra underscored NYIFF’s commitment to diversity, noting that this year’s program includes films in 12 Indian languages, ranging from Assamese to Tamil, reflecting the cultural richness and artistic breadth of India’s film industry.
Poonam Khubani, IAAC board member, highlighted the festival’s vision to share vibrant narratives, stating, “This year’s amalgamation of cultural richness, outstanding narratives, and stellar performances is poised to make this edition of the festival unparalleled in its appeal.”
NYIFF continues to celebrate Indian cinema in all its forms, with its lineup including premieres, post-screening discussions, industry panels, and award ceremonies, all highlighting the depth and diversity of contemporary Indian film.
