Guwahati Asian Film Festival Returns for a Bigger, Diversified Edition

Festival Highlights

The much-anticipated second edition of the Guwahati Asian Film Festival (GAFF) is set to unfold from January 22 to 25, 2026, in Guwahati. Following the success of its inaugural event, this year's festival promises a broader and more inclusive lineup of films, panel discussions, and interactive sessions.

Distinguished Guests and Opening/Closing Films

Legendary Indian filmmaker Girish Kasaravalli will grace the festival as the Chief Guest, while Bollywood and Marathi film actress Sonali Kulkarni will be the Special Invited Guest for the closing ceremony. The opening film will be the Uzbek feature "Sunday," directed by Shokir Kholikov, and the closing film will be the Iranian feature "In the Land of Brothers," directed by Alireza Ghasemi and Raha Amirfazli.

Diversified Film Selection

GAFF 2026 will showcase films from ten Asian countries, including Vietnam, Mongolia, Uzbekistan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Japan, Myanmar, Iran, Kazakhstan, and China. The festival will also present films from across India, featuring multiple languages such as Marathi, Bajjika, Malayalam, Hindi, Tulu, Nepali, Assamese, Karbi, Bodo, Mishing, Manipuri, and Bengali.

Regional Relevance

As the only Asian film festival of its kind in Northeast India, GAFF plays a significant role in bringing Asian cinema to the region and fostering cross-cultural dialogue. By showcasing films from diverse Asian countries and languages, the festival underscores the rich cultural tapestry of the region and the country as a whole.

Masterclasses and Panel Discussions

In addition to film screenings, GAFF 2026 will feature a series of masterclasses, panel discussions, and interactive sessions led by filmmakers, critics, and industry professionals from India and other Asian countries. These sessions aim to encourage deeper engagement with cinematic craft, storytelling traditions, and contemporary trends in Asian filmmaking.

Implications for the Film Industry and Culture

GAFF's commitment to building a sustained platform for cross-border cultural exchange through cinema not only enriches the film industry but also contributes to a broader understanding and appreciation of Asian cultures within India and beyond. As the festival continues to grow and evolve, it is poised to become an essential part of the global film festival circuit.

Conclusion

The second edition of GAFF promises to be a celebration of the rich diversity of Asian cinema, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and encouraging deeper engagement with cinematic craft and storytelling traditions. As the only Asian film festival of its kind in Northeast India, GAFF stands out for its focused Asian identity and its commitment to building a sustained platform for cross-border cultural exchange through cinema.