It’s time again for the Indian Film Festival of Houston.
Now in its 16th year, the festival presents Indian cinema, culture, and community to Houston. From the heartwarming narratives to the captivating performances, the annual event brings together audiences of all backgrounds.
The festival’s founder and executive director, Sutapa Ghosh has spearheaded the event since the beginning. In May 2023, she received the “Lifetime Achievement Award” from President Joe Biden at the White House. She was awarded for her lifelong commitment to building a stronger nation through volunteer service and bridging the two communities.
She tells Houston Life she’s humbled, but her biggest award is the love and respect she gets from putting on the event every year.
Ghosh was joined by Sooraj Gunjal. He is an Indian filmmaker of 12 years whose film “Naam (Identity)” is featured in the festival. “Naam” tells the story of a single mother who changes her identity to get a job as a maid to help her survive.
Here are the six selections you can see this weekend:
Short Film:
“Naam (Identity)” - The story of a single parent who changes her identity to get a job as a maid to survive.
“Ghost Walk” - The makers of this film portray the rare and special relationship between two individuals without leaving room for over-emotions.
Feature Film:
“Kabuliwala” - A timeless tale by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore that encapsulates the essence of heart-warming relationships and love that knows no boundaries, transcends borders, religion, and culture.
“It’s Time To Go” - The true story of an existential riddle in the life of an elderly couple who feel life should have a happy ending and seek an unusual remedy for a dignified exit.
Documentary
“Parama: A Journey with Aparna Sen” - An engaging documentary on iconic Indian actress, Aparna Sen’s life.
“Colours of Life” - A film director revisits the Himalayan Mountain villages after five years of shooting a national award-winning feature film, in which local villagers appeared in various roles. He meets and observes the villagers’ lives, philosophy, and ideas and invites them to a cinematic experience at The Himalayan Film Festival where some of them see cinema for the first time in their life.
In addition to film screenings, the festival also features a Q&A with the filmmakers, entertainment, live music, and food.
The festival is Feb. 23-24 at the Asia Society Texas Center.
Tickets can be purchased here.