In 2025, the UK’s film festival scene is buzzing with diverse voices, emerging talent, and global recognition. But what stands out most is the increasing spotlight on South Asian cinema. From red carpet moments to indie gems, this year marks a defining shift in how South Asian narratives are celebrated across the country. Here’s a curated guide to the must-attend UK film festivals this year where South Asian talent takes centre stage.
Brighton Rocks International Film Festival – Anoushka Shankar’s Directorial Debut
Dates: 15-20, July 2025
Location: Brighton, East Sussex
One of the most exciting highlights of the year, world-renowned sitarist and composer Anoushka Shankar will make her directorial debut at the Brighton Rocks International Film Festival. Known for blending classical Indian music with global genres and her advocacy for women’s rights, Shankar’s move into film direction marks a thrilling expansion of her creative portfolio. Her debut feature is set to explore diaspora identity through a cross-cultural lens, bringing South Asian storytelling into a British coastal city known for its creativity and edge.
There will also be exciting collaborations with global stars like Indian classical music legend Aruna Sairam, versatile artist Ganavya, the iconic Malian duo Amadou & Mariam, and acclaimed kora player Seckou Keita. Other standout performers include Meera Syal, Indira Varma, Aakash Odedra, Aditya Prakash, Nikesh Patel, Himesh Patel, and Rebecca Solnit, making this a star-studded event not to be missed.
UK Asian Film Festival – ‘Longing and Belonging’
Dates: 1-11 May, 2025
Locations: London, Leicester, Coventry, and Glasgow
The UK Asian Film Festival, now in its 26th year, continues to lead as a space for showcasing contemporary South Asian cinema. This year’s theme, “Longing and Belonging,” explores identity, memory, and diaspora roots. Expect thought-provoking films such as Kids Fight by Sarah Tareen and Her Right to Play by Mohammed Ali Sheilh, along with a mix of documentaries, shorts, and panel discussions. Organised by the charity Tongues on Fire, the festival blends activism, art, and culture.
UK Asian Film Festival is supported by the BFI Audience Projects Fund, awarding National Lottery funding. UK Asian Film Festival is powered by broadcast partner, Lyca Radio.
The Opening Gala will take place at BFI Southbank, London on Thursday 1 May, featuring the European Premiere of the powerful anthology film, My Melbourne (Australia, 2024; Dir’s: Onir, Rima Das, Imtiaz Ali, Kabir Khan; Language: English). The film explores identity, belonging, and resilience through four true stories of underrepresented voices in Australia. AndThe Closing Gala will feature the London Premiere of Academy Award-nominated film, The Glassworker, (Pakistan, 2024; Dir: Usman Riaz; Language: English) on Saturday 10 May at BFI Southbank, London. As war looms, a gifted glassmaker and his father see their world disrupted by an army colonel and his violinist daughter. When love blossoms between the young artists, they must find the courage to stand up to their fathers. .
London Indian Film Festival (LIFF) – Europe’s Biggest South Asian Cinema Celebration
Dates: July, 2025
Locations: London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds
LIFF has become a major fixture in the global film calendar. Celebrating independent cinema from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the South Asian diaspora, the festival showcases bold narratives often overlooked by mainstream cinema. A key highlight includes the Short Film Competition, spotlighting new directors with a focus on innovation and authenticity. Expect stories of migration, rebellion, family, and love – all with a South Asian soul.
Sheffield DocFest – South Asian Documentaries Take the Stage
Dates: 4-9, June, 2025
Location: Sheffield
Sheffield DocFest is the UK’s leading documentary festival and a growing platform for South Asian stories. In 2025, a curated strand will focus on documentaries from the region, including issues of climate justice in Bangladesh, gender politics in India, and Pakistani youth movements. Expect immersive storytelling, VR experiences, and talks with directors breaking new ground.
Why it matters?
For South Asian creatives, these festivals offer more than screenings – they are spaces of visibility, resistance, and celebration. With increasing representation both in front of and behind the camera, UK film festivals in 2025 are not just including South Asian stories – they’re centring them.
From Anoushka Shankar’s high-profile debut to student-led showcases, this is the year to witness how South Asian cinema is reshaping the British cultural landscape, one frame at a time.
