'Indus Blues' wins big at Jaipur International Film Festival

Documentary film is unique for raising awareness about the disappearing folk musical instruments in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: Jawad Sharif's film Indus Blues has won the awards for Best Documentary Feature and Best Cinematography in the Feature Documentary categories at the 11th Jaipur International Film Festival.

Indus Blues is unique for raising awareness about the disappearing folk musical instruments in Pakistan, as well as the plight of folk and classical musicians and craftsmen. The film was of particular interest to audiences at the festival in Rajasthan because of the rich cultural connection it made with the people of the Indian state.

As per Sharif, the documentary features two vocal performances with their roots connected to the Merwari culture, featuring Mai Dhai and Krishan Laal Bheel.

PHOTO: INDUS BLUES

The festival was held in Jaipur  from January 18 to January 22. This year, it has attracted more than 1,800 submissions from 89 countries around the world. Indus Blues has particularly been noted for its breathtaking cinematography by Asmat Bashir, aided by stunning aerial visuals by Muhammad Qadeer.

The director expressed his satisfaction while announcing the award. "Words can't describe my emotions at the moment for winning two big awards at Jaipur International Film Festival," he said. "The team of Indus Blues deserves appreciation for making it happen. Love across borders." Sharif also thanked the festival and its audiences for appreciating the film as it goes to show India and Pakistan are bonded with inseparable cultural ties.

PHOTO: INDUS BLUES

Indus Blues has continued its brilliant award run after receiving the Gold Award at the prestigious Spotlight Documentary Awards Festival and Best Documentary Feature at Top Indie Film Awards festival.    Earlier, it won the Grand Jury Prize in the Crystal Awards category at Guam International Film Festival in the United States.

The film is a co-production of Foundation of Arts, Culture, and Education and Bipolar Films - a platform that encourages artists and artisans to create relevant and socially viable works in their communities, while providing avenues to engage and connect with wider audiences and build revenue streams.

Classical music: Discussion held on endangered instruments

Bipolar Films is a production company based in Islamabad that produces narratives and documentary films, as well as commercial and branded content. The team encourages the creative process and pushes the boundaries of creative expression.

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