Pakistani cinema is gaining international acclaim as two films, Nayab (2024) and Deemak, received awards at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Film Festival held in Chongqing, China.
Nayab, which follows the journey of a young middle-class woman aspiring to succeed in the world of cricket, features actors Yumna Zaidi and Usama Khan. The film earned the Jury Special Award among 19 competing entries from SCO member nations, according to director Umair Nasir Ali.
In an Instagram post, Ali shared that the SCO jury, consisting of prominent figures from all member countries, praised Nayab for its creative storytelling, artistic quality, and direction.
He expressed pride in representing Pakistan at a global platform that goes beyond filmmaking to foster diplomacy and cultural exchange. He described the award as recognition of Pakistan’s stories, voices, and cinematic potential.
Ali thanked everyone involved in the making of Nayab, calling the win an emotional milestone for the country’s film industry. He also expressed hope that such international recognition would lead to more cross-border collaborations with filmmakers from China and other SCO nations.
In addition, the psychological horror film Deemak, starring Sonya Hussyn, Samina Peerzada, and Faysal Quraishi, received the Best Editing award at the festival.
Director Rafay Rashdi celebrated the achievement on Instagram, calling it a landmark victory for Pakistani cinema on a global platform. He thanked the SCO, the Ministry of Information, and all supporters of the film.
Rashdi posted a photo holding the award alongside lead actress Sonya Hussyn, who was present at the event.
Hussyn also shared her excitement in an Instagram story, calling it a proud moment for Pakistan and celebrating Deemak’s international recognition.
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