Recognition for Pakistani Cinema at International Stage
ISLAMABAD: Pakistani film awards Two Pakistani films, Nayab and Deemak, won top honors at the SCO Film Festival 2025 in Chongqing, China, as reported by the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP).
The festival showcased 27 films from member countries including China, Russia, India, Pakistan, and Central Asian nations. Its main goal was to boost regional film partnerships and promote cultural exchange through film screenings, expert panels, a tech expo, and a grand award ceremony.
Since its start in 2018, the SCO Film Festival has served as a platform for creative and cinematic cooperation among its member states.
APP confirmed that Nayab earned the Jury Special Award, while Deemak secured the Best Editing Award during the event’s closing ceremony.
Nayab A Sports Drama Breaking Barriers
Released in 2024, Nayab tells the story of a determined young woman from Karachi, portrayed by Yumna Zaidi. She dreams of becoming a professional cricketer, despite family resistance and societal challenges. The cast also includes Fawad Khan, Javed Sheikh, and Adnan Siddiqui.
Nayab has achieved international recognition. It won Best Foreign Film and Best First-Time Filmmaker (Feature) at the World Film Festival in Cannes. It also received a Special Jury Diploma at the 30th Minsk International Film Festival.
Director Umair Nasir Ali shared his gratitude for the warm reception.
“The cinema was packed,” he told APP. “What moved me most was how engaged the audience was. Their thoughtful questions showed they followed every detail and emotion in the film.”
Deemak: Horror Film with Technical Excellence
Directed by Rafay Akbar Rashdi, Deemak is a psychological horror film. It stars Soniya Hussyn, Faysal Quraishi, Samina Peerzada, and Bushra Ansari. The story takes place in an aging house plagued by eerie events, exploring themes of mental trauma and family strain.
The film earned praise for its editing, winning the Best Editing Award. It also broke records, becoming Pakistan’s highest-grossing horror film, collecting over Rs60 million (about $211,000) in its first week.
A reel shared on social media showed Rashdi accepting the award at the closing ceremony, a proud moment for the local film industry.
Pakistani Cinema Finds Its Voice
The success of Nayab and Deemak marks a turning point for Pakistani cinema. A new generation of filmmakers is now exploring genres such as sports drama, horror, and social commentary.
In 2022, Joyland became the first Pakistani film to premiere at Cannes. It won the Jury Prize in the Un Certain Regard section and represented Pakistan at the Oscars.
Meanwhile, The Legend of Maula Jatt, featuring Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan, shattered box office records and remains Pakistan’s highest-grossing film.
SCO Film Festival Builds Cultural Bridges
More than just a film showcase, the SCO Film Festival encourages cultural ties between member countries. It allows nations like Pakistan to share unique stories and strengthen diplomatic relations through film.
Winning awards at an international event like this helps Pakistani films gain visibility among global critics, viewers, and distributors.
Spotlight on Modern Pakistani Storytelling
Nayab and Deemak reflect a growing trend in the country’s cinema. Directors are focusing on strong narratives, creative visuals, and emotional storytelling.
Streaming platforms and international film festivals are now recognizing Pakistani content for its depth and originality. These stories are not only culturally rich but also emotionally relatable to global audiences.
Conclusion: A Big Win for Pakistan’s Film Industry
These achievements at the SCO Film Festival 2025 symbolize more than just artistic success. They represent Pakistan’s rising influence in international cinema. Nayab and Deemak prove that Pakistani filmmakers are ready to compete with regional powerhouses like India, China, and Russia.
As praise grows globally, Pakistan’s film industry is laying the foundation for a vibrant future. The country’s storytellers are stepping into the spotlight, bringing bold and diverse narratives to audiences around the world.
A Proud Moment for Pakistani Cinema
The recognition of Nayab and Deemak at the SCO Film Festival 2025 marks a significant milestone for Pakistan’s film industry. These prestigious international awards not only celebrate cinematic excellence but also affirm the country’s growing influence in global filmmaking and international storytelling. As visionary Pakistani filmmakers continue to break new ground, their remarkable success inspires a new era of creativity, cultural diversity, and global recognition for Pakistani cinema.
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