September 17-20

Each year CSAFF brings the finest South Asian films to downtown Chicago. Celebrating the stories, voices, and artistry of filmmakers across the diaspora and beyond. This year’s festival takes place at AMC River East on September 17th-20th, 2026.

Film Guide
Festival Pass Now Available

17 Years of celebrating South Asian Art

The Chicago South Asian Film Festival proudly celebrates 17 years of showcasing the artistry and creativity of South Asian filmmakers. Since its inception, the festival has been a platform for talented individuals to share their unique stories and perspectives with the Chicago audience. Through a diverse selection of films, CSAFF continues to highlight the richness of South Asian cinema and its impact on the global film industry. Join us in commemorating another year of cultural exchange and artistic excellence at the Chicago South Asian Film Festival.

Akshay Oberoi Q&A at Chicago South Asian Film Festival. Photo by Rahul Rana.
CSAFF movie theater. Photo by Rahul Rana Photography.
Swara Bhaskar Q&A for Nil Battey Sannata At CSAFF. Photo by Rahul Rana Photography.

Art Culture

Conversation

Community

Never Miss a Moment

Join the CSAFF community for film news, festival updates, and South Asian cinema delivered throughout the year.

  • Cinema

    Premiere films from South and Southeast Asia, subtitled for all audiences.

  • Conversation

    Panel discussions, workshops, and filmmaker Q&As.

  • Community

    Galas and networking events in the heart of downtown Chicago.

“The festival creates an innovative cultural and cinematic experience for Chicagoans and visitors alike — the City is proud to host this extraordinary partnership.”
— Former Mayor Rahm Emanuel
About CSAFF

Support the Festival

3.2% Cover the Fee
Tickets & Passes
CSAFF 2026 Unisex Tee
CSAFF 2026 Unisex Tee
$22.00

Its sturdy cotton fabric keeps edges crisp, holds shape through repeated washes, and layers perfectly for streetwear looks. 100% cotton. Sport Grey is 90% cotton, 10% polyester. Ash Grey is 99% cotton, 1% polyester. Heather colors are 50% cotton, 50% polyester. Pre-shrunk jersey knit. Open-end yarn. Tubular construction. Taped neck and shoulders. Double seam at sleeves and bottom hem.

Disclaimers: . Due to the fabric properties, the White color variant may appear off-white rather than bright white. Dark color speckles throughout the fabric are expected for the color Natural.

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CSAFF 2026 Unisex Hoodie
$40.00

Made with smooth 100% cotton, soft, fleece-lined interior for warmth. 65% ring-spun cotton, 35% polyester . Charcoal Heather, Carbon Grey, and Oatmeal Heather are 55% ring-spun cotton, 45% polyester. 100% cotton face. Front pouch pocket. Matching flat drawstrings. 3-panel hood.

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CSAFF 2026 Stainless Steel Bottle
CSAFF 2026 Stainless Steel Bottle
$30.00

This roomy 32 oz (950 ml) water bottle is ideal for long days and active lifestyles. The wide-mouth foldable straw ensures spill-free drinking while on the go, while the rotating handle makes it easy to carry. Double-walled stainless steel with vacuum insulation. Plastic lid and wide-mouth foldable straw. 32 oz (950 ml). Height: 9. 92″ (25. 2 cm). Diameter: 3. 54″ (9 cm). Glossy finish. Rotating handle. Comes with an anti-slip patch.

Disclaimers:. Not dishwasher or microwave safe. Hand-wash only. Light pressure might be needed to close the lid during the first uses, as it can take a few times for the straw to take the appropriate shape inside the bottle.

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Eco Tote Bag
$25.00

This roomy bag fits groceries, books, and so much more. 100% certified organic cotton. Weight limit: 30 lbs (13. 6 kg). 1″ (2. 5 cm) wide dual straps, 24. 5″ (62. 2 cm) length. Open main compartment.

The fabric of this product holds certifications for its organic cotton content under GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and OCS (Organic Content Standard). The fabric of this product is certified according to OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 (Certificate No. 13. HIN. 28382, Hohenstein). The product is also PETA-Approved Vegan.

Important: Organic cotton products are the result of farming that relies on organic fertilizers, like compost manure, and uses biological pest control. There are no synthetic substances or genetic modifications used during the production.

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CSAFF 2026 Unisex Sweatshirt
CSAFF 2026 Unisex Sweatshirt
$40.00

This sweatshirt has the look and feel of an old favorite from day one. The garment-dyed fabric gives it a faded, washed-out color with natural variations and incredible softness. The heavyweight fleece adds structure without feeling stiff and the relaxed fit ensures an effortless streetwear look. 80% ring-spun cotton, 20% polyester.

Disclaimer: This sweatshirt undergoes garment-dyeing and softening processes, which may cause slight color variations.

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CSAFF 2025 in Photos

  • AMC