Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, Rupi Kaur celebrate South Asian Excellence at third annual pre-Oscars party

The glitz and glamour of Hollywood's most prestigious event, the Oscars, were preluded by the third annual South Asian Excellence pre-Oscars party, which saw a star-studded attendance at the Paramount lot. Among the notable personalities gracing the event's red carpet were Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, Ali Sethi, Kal Penn, Lilly Singh, Rupi Kaur, Richa Moorjani, Hannah Simone, Karan Soni and Tan France.

The highlight of the evening came as Sharmeen, celebrated filmmaker and advocate, took to her Instagram grid to share a carousel post capturing the essence of South Asian representation at the Oscars. In her caption, she expressed her delight at the opportunity to celebrate South Asian nominees, remarking, “Celebrating South Asian Nominees at the Oscars this year! This evening is always special. So glad we are now able to champion our kin!”

The director posted a group picture of all the big South Asian names in attendance whereas in another, she can be seen striking a pose with the Pasoori singer.

Sharmeen dazzled attendees in a striking ensemble by Pakistani designer Hussain Rehar. The ensemble, named Star Gaze from Rehar's Jugnu Lahore collection, consisted of a beige karandi blazer, intricately adorned with embroidery, paired with a high-waisted star spray embroidered skirt. 

Extending her gratitude towards the hosts, the filmmaker also relayed her appreciation for the renowned designer. “Thank you Shruti & Anita for bringing us all together! Thank you Hussain Rehar for the designs and Alizeh Pasha for the inspiration!” she capped up her IG post.

The pre-Oscars party not only celebrated the achievements of South Asian talent in the film industry but also served as a platform for fostering solidarity and support within the community. Last year, Priyanka Chopra and Mindy Kaling, along with Paramount Pictures, hosted the party ahead of the Oscars 2023 in Los Angeles.

Aside from Sharmeen, the pre-Oscars party saw a myriad of Pakistani stars in attendance including the Joyland team Saim Sadiq, Alina Khan, Apoorva Guru Chara, activist Malala with her husband Asser Malik, singer Ali Sethi, actor-director Riz Ahmed and more.

Asser uploaded a picture on his Instagram Story from the party featuring the “Pakistani gang” that included Tan France, Maheen Khan, Rasti Farooq, Ali Junejo as well. 

Sharmeen had a little Ms. Marvel reunion at the party too where she posed with actors Zenobia Shroff and Saagar Sheikh.

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