SCO Film Awards
Pakistani cinema has once again stepped onto the global stage, as two local productions, Nayab (2024) and Deemak, earned prestigious awards at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Film Festival held in Chongqing, China.
These wins not only highlight the growing artistic excellence of Pakistani filmmakers but also reflect the country’s increasing presence in international cultural forums.
Nayab, a sports drama that follows the inspiring journey of a young middle-class girl who dreams of excelling in cricket, stood out among 19 competing films from SCO member states.
The film stars Yumna Zaidi and Usama Khan in lead roles and was directed by Umair Nasir Ali. It received the Jury Special Award, a recognition that celebrates artistic distinction and narrative strength.
Umair Nasir Ali shared the news on Instagram, revealing that the film was selected by a jury comprising eminent representatives from all SCO countries. He expressed deep pride in the achievement, saying the award acknowledged the film’s artistic merit, originality in storytelling, and strong directorial vision.
According to him, being recognised on such a significant multilateral platform is not only a personal victory but also a national one. He emphasized that representing Pakistan at the SCO Film Festival goes beyond showcasing cinema—it contributes to cultural diplomacy and fosters people-to-people connections among member states.
Ali further noted that this recognition serves as a testament to the stories Pakistan is telling, the voices it is amplifying, and the talent it continues to produce. He thanked his team and all those who supported the journey of Nayab, expressing hope that the win would pave the way for increased collaboration between filmmakers from Pakistan, China, and other SCO nations.
At the same event, Deemak, a psychological horror film directed by Rafay Rashdi and starring Sonya Hussyn, Samina Peerzada, and Faysal Quraishi, won the award for Best Editing.
Rashdi described the achievement as a historic moment for Pakistani cinema on an international platform. He extended his gratitude to the SCO, the Ministry of Information, and all those who supported the film’s vision. In a celebratory post, he also shared a photo with the award, accompanied by Sonya Hussyn, who attended the award ceremony.
Hussyn took to her Instagram story to express her excitement, calling the win a proud moment for Pakistan. She wrote that Deemak had brought home an award from a highly respected international festival, marking a significant achievement for the entire team and for the country’s growing film industry.
