.
KARACHI:
Ziauddin University’s College of Media Sciences hosted the ‘Nazariya’ film festival, themed ‘Roots & Routes’, to celebrate creativity, freedom of expression and the power of storytelling.
The event provided a platform for emerging filmmakers to present narratives that explore connection, movement and transformation, reflecting on how origins and journeys shape stories.
About 100 short films and documentaries were screened, with awards in several categories. “Soul of the Mountain” won best editing and best documentary, while “Pin Drop Silence” won best sound design, best acting, best photography and best short film.
‘Suni Sunai’ was awarded for Best Screenplay and Best Art Direction and ‘Hi-Roof’ won Best Director. Prof Dr Abbas Zafar, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Ziauddin University, lauded the vision of the festival.
“‘Roots & Routes’ balances tradition with progress, reflecting creativity, innovation and culture while reminding us of our stories and heritage,” Zafar said, according to a press release.
At the festival, veteran actress Bushra Ansari received a Lifetime Achievement Award for her contribution to the Pakistani entertainment industry. Addressing the participants, she urged them to write from the heart: “Only when your soul flows into your words, will it reach the hearts of others.”
The jury, including Kainat Thebbo, Amin Iqbal, Zarqa Naz, Gumby, Hamza Lari, Alam Azeemi and Syed Mohsin, guided the young filmmakers through a fair and insightful judging process.
The festival also included discussions and performances. Author Zafar Mairaj emphasized the timeless essence of storytelling, while performer Kaif Ghazanavi described narratives as therapeutic. Screenwriter Muhammad Ahmed discussed the industry’s focus on ratings but expressed optimism for the new generation of creators.
Professor Dr Shehla Najib Siddiqui highlighted the festival’s global reach, while musical performances and a live drum circle added vibrancy, celebrating the country’s youth and creative talent.
a href=”https://tribune.com.pk/story/2579142/nazariya-film-festival-celebrates-young-storytellers”>Source link
