The Mumbai Asian Film Festival will debut on October 31, 2026, bringing independent filmmakers, emerging talent and Asian cinema together in Mumbai. The two-day event will feature film screenings and awards, with future expansion planned for Dubai and Ranchi.
MUMBAI: The Mumbai Asian Film Festival (MAFF) is preparing to make its debut on October 31 and November 1, 2026, offering independent filmmakers a new platform to showcase their work and connect with international audiences.
The inaugural event will take place at Barry John Acting Studio in Andheri West, Mumbai, bringing together filmmakers, actors, students, industry professionals and cinema enthusiasts.
With its motto, “Celebrating Stories. Connecting Through Cinema,” the festival aims to promote creative storytelling, cultural exchange and emerging cinematic talent.
A new opportunity for independent filmmakers
The Mumbai Asian Film Festival will focus on films that often struggle to secure mainstream distribution, including short films, documentaries, independent features and student productions.
Organisers have announced 18 award categories recognising filmmaking achievements, acting performances, debut directors and student cinema. Selected categories will offer cash prizes of up to ₹15,000, alongside trophies and certificates.
For emerging filmmakers, the event could provide valuable exposure, professional connections and opportunities to introduce their work to new audiences.
Beyond awards, MAFF intends to encourage conversations between filmmakers and viewers, creating an environment where different cinematic traditions can connect.
Who is behind the festival?
The festival was founded by Smita Uchil and Kundan Kumaar, with an experienced team supporting its development.
Its leadership includes Festival Director Ashok Purang, Festival Mentor Subhransu Das, and Festival Advisors Hasan Naved and Namita Lal. The organisers envision MAFF as a continuing creative platform rather than simply a two-day celebration.
Their broader ambition includes developing relationships with filmmakers, educational institutions, cultural organisations and industry professionals.
Why Dubai is part of the expansion plans
One of the festival’s notable ambitions is its proposed expansion beyond Mumbai. Organisers have identified Dubai and Ranchi, Jharkhand, as potential future destinations, with preliminary discussions already progressing.
Dubai’s multicultural environment could provide opportunities for Indian and Asian filmmakers to connect with Middle Eastern audiences, creative professionals and cultural institutions.
Ranchi, meanwhile, could help the festival reach regional storytellers and encourage greater recognition of local filmmaking traditions. However, specific dates and venues for these proposed editions have not yet been announced.
Impact to expect
The Mumbai Asian Film Festival could strengthen opportunities for independent cinema by connecting emerging filmmakers with new audiences and industry networks. Its proposed Dubai expansion may also encourage cultural collaboration between South Asia and the UAE, creating additional possibilities for regional film communities.
When and where is the festival taking place?
The inaugural edition is scheduled for October 31 to November 1, 2026, at Barry John Acting Studio, 301 Nanak Chambers, New Link Road, Andheri West, Mumbai.
Festival information and submission details are available on the official MAFF website.
