Karachi: The sixth edition of the three-day Cinephilia Flair Film Festival was successfully held recently under the patronage of Ali Akbar Kazmi. Dr. Umair Haroon graced the festival as the chief guest. A globally recognized figure who has brought pride to the country, Dr. Umair Haroon needs no introduction. This son of Karachi is the first Pakistani member of the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (IATAS), the prestigious organization behind the International Emmy Awards. Dr. Umair Haroon also served as an esteemed member of the festival’s jury, further enhancing the stature of the event.
After three days of screenings and related activities, the festival concluded successfully. A remarkable lineup of international films was showcased during the festival.
Film submissions for the festival opened on October 18, 2025, with the final deadline set for December 20, 2025. Films were received from 24 countries around the world. Following a rigorous and comprehensive selection process, 67 films were chosen for screening at the festival, representing diverse cultures, narratives, and cinematic styles.
Throughout the three-day event, the audience response was overwhelmingly positive, with a large turnout of university students and members of the general public. Several screenings were houseful, clearly reflecting the growing interest of local audiences in independent and international cinema.
During the festival, a distinguished jury panel reviewed the films. The jury included Dr. Umair Haroon, Muhammad Faraz, Muneeza Ali, Khurram Sohail, and Ali Sheikh. Their expertise and experience ensured a transparent and insightful decision-making process, while also enabling meaningful interaction with emerging filmmakers.
In addition to the screenings, a panel discussion was also held during the festival, featuring thoughtful dialogue on the future of cinema. The discussion highlighted how digital platforms and streaming services are transforming the structure of the film industry. It also addressed the importance of art and cinema in Pakistan, the challenges faced by local filmmakers, and the need for strong platforms to promote creative expression.
The festival concluded on the evening of January 3, 2026, with an awards ceremony honoring outstanding films across various categories. Films from Kazakhstan, Pakistan, India, Iran, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh received awards, reflecting the festival’s global reach.
The award for Best Feature Film was presented to Blessed (Kazakhstan).
Best Special Category Films were The Prism (Pakistan) and Tu Mera Dost (Pakistan).
Best Documentary Films were Sukkur Stories (Pakistan) and The Colors of Tangail (Bangladesh).
Best Animation Films were Sweat (Pakistan) and The Ugly Green Planet (India).
Outstanding achievements in directing, screenplay, cinematography, and overall filmmaking were also recognized in the 20-minute and 10-minute categories.
The awards night was a lively and colorful celebration, featuring live bands, musical performances, and interactive games that kept attendees thoroughly entertained.
The festival received support from Myco, Vouch 360, Raheela’s, and Westryfit, who provided gift hampers for jury members and participants. Following the on-ground event, the complete festival lineup will be available for streaming on Myco from January 10 to January 20, 2026, extending the festival’s reach to digital audiences as well.
The entire event was planned and managed by Event Management Class, whose hard work, dedication, and teamwork ensured the smooth and successful execution of the festival across all three days.
The sixth edition of the Cinephilia Flair Film Festival once again proved itself to be a significant platform for local and international cinema, promoting dialogue, creativity, and the appreciation of film as an evolving art form.
