‘Jamun Ka Darakht’ bags Best Short Film, Best Actor US film fest

Film director Rafay Rashdi took to Instagram to announce that his short film Jamun Ka Darakht had won both the coveted Best Short Film and Best Actor awards at the South Asian International Film Festival in Florida. 

Exuding gratitude for recognition of his momentous project, a delighted Rashdi wrote, “This is the first ever award I've ever won in my life. After coming first in grade 2 of course. Thankful to the jury. Thank you to @saiff_florida for the wonderful hospitality. God is great. Congratulations to the cast and crew. What an incredible moment.” 

Meanwhile, after having spent some uncomfortable weeks in the public eye being slated for casually likening women to flies, Best Actor Adnan Siddiqui also took to social media to post about his latest achievement.

“Winning the Best Actor award at the South Asian Film International Festival Florida (SAIFF) for my movie Jamun Ka Darakht is an immense honour,” he tweeted. “Huge congrats to the team for also securing Best Short Film. Grateful to everyone involved!” 

A much-lauded venture of Pakistani cinema, Jamun Ka Darakht expertly weaves the story of women caught in the web of the fashion world. Exploring themes surrounding consensuality between individuals and self-realisation, the film promises an intense and riveting viewing experience with its intricate storytelling. 

As a testament to the high level of skill involved in bringing the project together, Jamun Ka Darakht had earlier been selected to be played at the prestigious Cannes World Film Festival, which highlights films and documentaries from filmmakers covering the themes of human rights, social justice, health and disability. Written by renowned screenwriter Bee Gul and directed by Rashdi, Jamun Ka Darakht features Siddiqui playing the role of Karim, as well as actor and model Fouzia Aman, and Maha Tahirani. 

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