Lights, camera, culture.
The UK’s most vibrant celebration of South Asian cinema, UK Asian Film Festival (UKAFF), returns from 1st–11th May 2025, with a programme rich in emotion, storytelling, and unapologetic glamour.
Luxurist are thrilled to be a Media Partner this year.
This year’s theme, “Longing & Belonging,” explores the dreams, migrations, and romances that define who we are. From glittering galas to grassroots storytelling, prepare for 11 days where the red carpet meets real life.
Here’s your Luxurist-approved guide to the sparkle, soul, and standout events not to miss:
Red Carpet Moments
Opening Gala: My Melbourne
BFI Southbank | Thursday 1 May | 6PM Red Carpet
Four journeys, one city — experience true stories of identity, belonging, and resilience, directed by icons including Imtiaz Ali and Onir.
Closing Gala: The Glassworker
BFI Southbank | Saturday 10 May | 6:30PM Red Carpet
A breathtaking animated love story from Pakistan exploring war, art, and forbidden love.
Must-Watch Films
We Are Faheem & Karun
Warwick Arts Centre, Garden Cinema, and Phoenix Leicester
A tender, groundbreaking LGBTQ+ story set against the haunting beauty of Kashmir.
The Umesh Chronicles
Rich Mix | Saturday 3 May
Coming-of-age nostalgia meets the shimmering dreams of 1980s India.
Jai Mata Ji – Let’s Rock
Beck Theatre and Phoenix Leicester
An 80-year-old matriarch unleashes her inner rebel in this riotous, feel-good Gujarati comedy.
Star Encounters and Panels
In Conversation with Shobhaa Dé
Riverside Studios | Sunday 11 May
India’s literary powerhouse shares her reflections on society, rebellion, and storytelling.
Directors in Dialogue: Onir and Imtiaz Ali
BFI Southbank | Thursday 1 May
A rare opportunity to hear two of India’s most celebrated directors unpack creativity, identity, and cinematic journeys.
Asians on the Square
Beck Theatre | Sunday 5 May
A heartfelt celebration of 40 years of Asian families in EastEnders, with familiar faces and iconic moments.
Experiences Beyond the Screen
Mystic Mela
Beck Theatre | Sunday 4 May | From 11:30AM
A soulful day of music, cinema, artisan food, and workshops. A vibrant celebration of heritage and creativity for the entire family.
Exhibition: Sholay – 50 Years Later
Nehru Centre | 5–9 May
A rare glimpse into the making of India’s most iconic film, featuring memorabilia, posters, and untold stories from the cinematic classic.
Awards and Celebrations
UKAFF Awards Ceremony
Riverside Studios | Sunday 11 May
A dazzling afternoon of recognition and celebration, honouring the finest in film, music, and culture.
Awards Afterparty
Riverside Studios River Room
An elegant gathering to toast the voices shaping a new era of South Asian storytelling.
Key Dates to Bookmark
| Date | Highlights |
| 1 May | Opening Gala and My Melbourne |
| 2 May | We Are Faheem & Karun, The Collaborator |
| 3 May | Workshops and The Umesh Chronicles |
| 4 May | Mystic Mela and Story of a Rock |
| 5–9 May | Sholay Exhibition |
| 6 May | A Teacher’s Gift, Nukkad Naatak |
| 7 May | Maaran, Hari Ka Om, Parikrama |
| 8 May | Slaves of the Empire |
| 9 May | Shobhaa Dé’s tribute to Shyam Benegal |
| 10 May | Short Film Competition and Closing Film |
| 11 May | Awards Ceremony and Afterparty |
For the full programme and to book your tickets, visit ukaff.com
Follow the journey on Instagram: @ukasianfilmfest
