Directed by Sana Jafri, the film tackles generational silence around childhood trauma and becomes the only Pakistani entry at TIFF 2025.
TORONTO / LAHORE: The Pakistani short film Permanent Guest (Mustaqil Mehmaan) is set to make its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2025, marking a significant milestone for Pakistani cinema on the global stage. The film, written and directed by Sana Jafri, is the only Pakistani entry at the prestigious festival this year.
Set in Lahore, Permanent Guest tells the story of Fatin, a 26-year-old woman preparing for a neighbourhood wedding with her mother, Yasmeen. Their routine is upended by the unexpected arrival of Shabeer, Fatin’s uncle, whose presence forces her to confront long-buried memories. The emotional tension and confrontation form the heart of the narrative.
The film’s ensemble cast includes acclaimed actors Rasti Farooq, Nadia Afgan, Salman Shahid, Ali Tahir, and Hiba-i-Zahra. According to the official synopsis, the film explores the long-term psychological impact of childhood sexual abuse within South Asian households, focusing on the silence and denial that often surround such trauma.
A Film Rooted in Social Reality and Personal Courage
Director Sana Jafri, known for her work as co-producer and casting director on the internationally acclaimed Joyland, said the film addresses intergenerational silence within families—particularly how older generations often dismiss or normalize issues that younger members still struggle to process.
“Permanent Guest is an attempt to break through that silence,” said Jafri. “It presents the quiet harm that lingers in homes, while also showing how that silence can be challenged.”
The project was independently developed through crowdfunding, receiving support from within Pakistan and the Pakistani diaspora abroad. No state or institutional funding was involved, making its selection at TIFF all the more notable.
A Historic Moment for Pakistani Cinema at TIFF
This marks a historic achievement for Pakistani cinema, as Jafri becomes the first Pakistani woman filmmaker to debut a short film at TIFF, now in its 50th year. The festival is considered one of the most influential in the world, often serving as a launchpad for films that go on to receive global distribution and critical acclaim.
TIFF has previously featured only two Pakistani short films: Darling by Saim Sadiq and Bhai by Zarrar Khan. The inclusion of Permanent Guest highlights the growing international presence of Pakistani storytellers addressing urgent social issues through cinema.
The film is scheduled to premiere tomorrow as part of TIFF’s 2025 edition, bringing South Asian narratives to a diverse, global audience.
