DCSAFF celebrates its 15th anniversary with three days of cinema, culture, conversations and community on September 11–13, 2026 at Regal Rockville Center, Rockville, Maryland
Our Bureau
Rockville, MD
The Washington, D.C. region’s South Asian film community is preparing for a milestone celebration as the DC South Asian Film Festival (DCSAFF) marks its 15th anniversary this September. The three-day in-person festival will bring features, shorts, documentaries, filmmaker conversations, master classes and post-screening discussions to Montgomery County.
This year’s message, “Bridging Cultures Through Cinema,” reflects DCSAFF’s commitment to presenting the breadth of South Asian stories and filmmakers, with voices connected to India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet and Sri Lanka.
A Festival Built Around Stories That Stay With You
52 Blue anchors the Opening Night program, setting the tone for a festival centered on human connection and resilience. Lali headlines Closing Night and has already attracted international attention, including a world premiere at the 76th Berlin International Film Festival earlier in 2026.
The wider lineup includes Madam Mumtaz & Co., Boong, Shadow Box, The Great Shamsuddin Family, Timeless, Notice Me Now, On the Mountain and Dad’s Dream, among other independent works.
Sarmad Khoosat, Pakistani filmmaker, writer, producer and actor, returns to DCSAFF with Lali. Khoosat has a long history with the festival; he was previously honored for his contribution to Pakistani television and cinema, and Kamli earned him the DCSAFF Best Director award in 2023.
More Than Screenings: Building a Film Community
The anniversary celebration begins before the cinema lights come up. On September 6, DCSAFF will host a Lunch Mixer & Panel Discussions at The Writers Center in Bethesda, presented by Kimberly Skyrme / Creative! Butterfly Films and DCSAFF. The program brings filmmakers, performers and production professionals together for conversations on DCSAFF’s 15-year journey, the Mid-Atlantic talent pipeline and production in the region, followed by networking. Featured voices include DCSAFF alumni, Maryland Film Office representatives and other industry professionals.
The 15th edition continues DCSAFF’s evolution as a connector within the regional creative economy—creating opportunities for filmmakers, actors, producers, writers and crew while giving audiences access to stories that entertain, challenge and connect. The festival’s virtual program is scheduled for September 14–30, extending the opportunity to discover South Asian independent cinema beyond the theater weekend.
Plan Your Festival Weekend
September 11–13, 2026
Regal Rockville Center
199 E. Montgomery Ave., Rockville, MD 20850
DC South Asian Film Festival
Bridging Cultures Through Cinema • Culture • Cinema • Community