Poonam Dhillon & Rajkummar Rao to attend UK Asian Film Festival 2023
Poonam Dhillon and Rajkummar Rao, will be among the film talent in conversation at the Closing Gala of the 25th anniversary edition of UK Asian Film Festival. The Closing Gala Event and UK Asian Film Festival Awards will take place on Sunday 14th May, BFI Southbank.
Poonam Dhillon is a multi-award winning artist and silver screen icon, having acted in over 100 films in Hindi, Telegu, Kannada, Marathi, Gujarati and Punjabi, in blockbusters including ‘Noorie’, ‘Trishul’, ‘Yeh Vaada Raha’ and ‘Sohni Mahiwal’ among countless others. One of the top female actors in Indian cinema in the 1970s and 1980s, she went on to make her foray on television in serials such as ‘Andaz’ and ‘Kitty Party’.
Rajkummar Rao is one of the most talented and versatile actors in India today. Being an outsider to the industry, he has carved a niche for himself with the different shades of character he plays, his choices in movies showcasing his diversity as an artist. Rao has helmed films that have garnered both critical acclaim and Box Office success. He has appeared in more than 30 films since 2010 and is the recipient of several accolades including a National Film Award; three Filmfare Awards; and an Asia Pacific Screen Award. In 2017, he appeared on Forbes India’s Celebrity 100 list.
Independent film director and producer Jamil Dehlavi has also been confirmed at the closing ceremony.
UK Asian Film Festival will run at venues across London, Leicester, Manchester and Glasgow from Thursday 4th – Sunday 14th May, UK Asian Film Festival is presented by Tongues on Fire and is supported by the BFI and Arts Council England.
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UK Asian Film Festival Founder and Director, Dr Pushpinder Chowdhry MBE says, “When we set up Tongues on Fire, we wanted to create a platform for thought provoking stories that stimulate meaningful conversations, unpack uncomfortable truths and challenge patriarchy. It fills us with great pride and joy to open our silver jubilee edition at NFT 1 BFI Southbank with a powerful screening of Sanaa. This unique film has a compelling story that celebrates the journey so far for women’s independence. South Asian women are finally taking control to make their own decisions, be it their career, their bodies or their lives against a slow changing man’s world. Sanaa carries a beautiful message of solidarity and sisterhood to challenge generations of gender conditioning and the subtleties of modern misogyny.
This is just a glimpse of some of the best gems made by today’s brilliantly talented thinkers who have expertly captured the issues of this time to make enjoyable films that will excite our communities to drive positive change. We remain true to our roots with a power packed programme celebrating our stories through excellent films, masterclasses, in conversations, live events and more!”
UK Asian Film Festival Creative Director, Samir Bhamra says, “I’m ecstatic! What an honour to have been part of the Tongues on Fire UK Asian Film Festival journey! I started as a volunteer for the festival in 2002 and was moved by the astonishing drive and ambition of the founders, Dr Pushpinder Chowdhry and Harvinder Nath. They spearheaded an incredible film festival against all the odds to screen powerful South Asian stories to transform our communities. Our beloved festival strives to highlight new perspectives and shines the spotlight on acclaimed filmmakers. Our silver jubilee celebrations are rolling out the red carpet to welcome you back with an incredible line up of rich experiences. Join us for new discoveries and fan favourites at a cinema or theatre in London, Leicester or Scotland!”
