Noor-us-Sabah
Pakistani cinema shines brightly as Nayab (2024) and Deemak claim prestigious awards at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Film Festival in Chongqing, China, boldly showcasing the nation’s storytelling prowess on a global stage.
Nayab, a vibrant drama starring Yumna Zaidi and Usama Khan, follows a middle-class girl’s bold pursuit of cricket stardom. Directed by Umair Nasir Ali, the film secures the Jury Special Award, standing out among 19 entries from SCO member states. In a passionate Instagram post, Ali reveals that the jury, composed of distinguished SCO representatives, celebrates Nayab for its exceptional artistry, fresh narrative, and masterful direction.
“This honor on such a major global platform feels deeply personal yet powerfully national,” Ali declares. He proudly notes that representing Pakistan at the SCO Film Festival, which blends cinema with diplomacy, carries immense weight. “This award doesn’t just honor me—it amplifies Pakistan’s stories, voices, and talent,” he adds. Furthermore, Ali hopes Nayab’s triumph sparks collaborations with filmmakers from China and SCO nations, ensuring Pakistani stories continue to inspire across borders.
Meanwhile, Deemak, a chilling psychological horror starring Sonya Hussyn, Samina Peerzada, and Faysal Quraishi, grabs the Best Editing award. Director Rafay Rashdi, in an excited Instagram post, hails the win as a “historic milestone for Pakistani cinema.” He gratefully acknowledges the SCO, the Ministry of Information, and the team’s unwavering belief in the film’s vision, proclaiming, “Pakistan Zindabad!”
Additionally, Rashdi shares a photo with the award alongside Hussyn, who attends the ceremony. Hussyn, thrilled, posts on her Instagram story, exclaiming, “Our film Deemak wins big at this prestigious festival—a proud moment for Pakistan!” Consequently, these victories highlight Pakistani cinema’s growing influence, leaving fans eager for more groundbreaking stories.
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