About

The Chicago South Asian Film Festival’s mission is to advance diversity in Chicagoland through cinema, conversation, and culture. Celebrating South Asian film culture, the festival highlights talent, stories, and themes from the region on a worldwide platform. Committed to fostering an inclusive space, the festival offers a unique cinematic experience, building connections between filmmakers and movie enthusiasts with the signature warmth and personal touch emblematic of Chicago's spirit.

THE FESTIVAL AIMS TO:

  • Promote South Asian culture, talent and perspectives through films, art and discussions

  • Promote Local Businesses and Organizations by creating partnerships and fostering strong relationships to provide exposure

  • Promote Chicago as a destination for making films while supporting local talent through workshops and networking platforms

The Chicago South Asian Film Festival is one of the largest multicultural events in the heartland of America held annually in downtown Chicago, celebrating diversity through the art of cinema. Established in 2010 by the Chicago South Asian Arts Council, a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering creativity and cultural exchange, CSAFF showcases premiere films from a variety of South Asian countries including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Iran, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Tibet. Additionally, the festival provides a platform for films from Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. Through curated screenings, panel discussions, industry workshops, musical performances, and awards galas, CSAFF offers a unique opportunity for filmmakers and enthusiasts to engage with diverse cinematic experiences while promoting a sense of unity and mutual appreciation. Each film presented at the festival is either spoken in English or subtitled, ensuring accessibility to a wider audience.

CSAFF is an exclusive annual event supported by key entities such as the Mayor of Chicago, Chicago Film Office, Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, and the Consulates General of India and Pakistan. Additionally, vital contributions come from the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, Chicago Sister Cities: Delhi Committee, Evanston Public Library, the City of Evanston, Tribeca Flashpoint Film School, DePaul University, educational institutions, and industry ambassadors. But above all, our deepest appreciation goes to our vibrant, film-loving, and devoted audience for their unwavering support.

“The Festival creates an innovative cultural and cinematic experience for Chicagoans and visitors alike. Through the gift of film, the Chicago South Asian Film Festival invites all to share and enjoy the magic of cinema and true cultural exchange. The City is proud to host this extraordinary partnership between the South Asian community and the arts and entertainment industry.”

- Former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel

FESTIVAL HISTORY

The distinguished Chicago South Asian Film Festival had its genesis in 2010, thanks to the visionary initiative of Amit Rana, Mileen Patel, and Ketki Parikh, generously supported by Vachikam Inc and the Network of Indian Professionals (NetIP). The inaugural edition took place from October 1st to 3rd, 2010, at the prestigious venues of the Chicago Cultural Center and Columbia College Chicago, presenting a curated selection of 16 cinematic gems. Renowned film personalities such as Aparna Sen, Deepti Naval, and Ajay Naidu graced the event, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of over 1,300 attendees. The festival's inception was steered by a dedicated committee comprising of Suhani Amin, Kaivan Dave, Ketki Parikh, Mileen Patel, Amit Rana, Raza Siddiqui, Susan Singh, Shalini Trivedi and Parveen Usman. Following the resounding success of the inaugural edition, the Chicago South Asian Arts Council Inc., a non-profit entity, was established in December 2010, with a resolute commitment to nurturing South Asian arts and fostering local talent across Chicagoland.