The Center for South Asian Studies (CSAS) at the University of Michigan honored female filmmakers in its second annual South Asian Film Series, continuing its commitment to showcasing South Asian women's contributions to cinema into 2025.
The series began in September 2024 with a public screening of Girls Will Be Girls, directed by Shuchi Talati. The film, which won an Audience Award at Sundance, is one of several acclaimed works featured as part of the series.
“South Asian cinema is amazing, and South Asian women have made so many incredible films,” said Madhumita Lahiri, interim director of CSAS. “By bringing these movies to campus, we are building community around one of the great pleasures of South Asian culture.”
“This past year was a big one for South Asian women on the film festival circuit,” said Veerendra Prasad, the curator of the series, as well as a screenwriter, director, and lecturer at U-M. “We have a schedule filled with award winners. Laapataa Ladies (Lost Ladies) has been picked as India’s official entry for the Oscars. It felt natural to do a showcase centered on these prominent films.”
The series is hosted in partnership with the historic Michigan Theater, with screenings taking place at the Michigan and State Theaters. All films are free and open to the public, emphasizing accessibility and community engagement.
The winter lineup includes Wakhri, directed by Iram Parveen Bilal, on January 30 to coincide with CSAS’s Pakistan Conference; Laapataa Ladies on February 12; and Santosh, written and directed by Sandhya Suri, on March 19, 2025.
CSAS’s ongoing commitment to promoting South Asian cinema and fostering dialogue around its cultural significance continues to resonate with audiences. “This series is not just about film; it’s about connecting people through the stories that define South Asian culture,” added Lahiri.
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