A vibrant crowd of filmmakers, students, media
professionals, academics, and celebrities, made
it one of the most engaging events
Staff Reporter
Karachi: The Pakistan International Film Festival (PIFF) 2025, organized by the Karachi Film Society (KFS) in collaboration with the Intellectual Property Organization (IPO) Pakistan, commemorated World Intellectual Property Day with a four-day cultural celebration. The initiative, supported by HUM Network, drew a vibrant crowd of filmmakers, students, media professionals, academics, and celebrities, making it one of the most engaging events on Karachi’s film calendar.
Powerful Screenings Spark Dialogue and Enthusiasm
Day 3 of the festival featured the acclaimed Pakistani film Joon, written and directed by Babur Ali. The film stars Saleem Mairaj as the gangster Daud and Ashir Wajahat as a street sweeper who spirals into crime, with a romantic subplot featuring Romaisa Khan. The screening drew strong audience interest.
Also showcased was She Chef (2023), a German documentary directed by Melanie Liebheit and Gereon Wetzel, chronicling a young Austrian chef’s pursuit of excellence across Europe’s Michelin-starred kitchens.
Grand Premiere of Hundan: An Echo of a Dirge Steals the Spotlight
The highlight of the day was the premiere of Hundan: An Echo of a Dirge (2025), attended by the film’s director Karamat Ali Huzai, lead actors Zahid Azeem, Alhanul Kudrat, and Munira Shah. Prominent personalities including Sindh Minister Nasir Hussain Shah, Executive Director of Hashwani Group Ameen Hashwani, Taha Saleem, S.T. Mustafa, and actresses Rubina Ashraf, Hina Bayat Khawaja, and Shaniera Qureshi were also present.
In his speech, Minister Nasir Shah lauded the efforts of Sultana Siddiqui, HUM Network, and PIFF in promoting Pakistani cinema and announced Sindh Government’s full support, including dedicated budget allocations for future initiatives.
Sultana Siddiqui Calls for Industry Revival
HUM Network President Sultana Siddiqui expressed heartfelt thanks to the attendees and emphasized the importance of films like Hundan in reviving Pakistan’s cinematic landscape. “With commitment and government backing, our youth can achieve remarkable feats,” she stated.
The screening of Hundan received strong praise from the audience, who echoed the need for more high-quality films with compelling narratives.
