Announcing “the incredible milestone,” Rita Meher, executive director and co-founder of Tasveer called the achievement “a monumental step forward for South Asian cinema.” She said the nonprofit has “always believed in the power of South Asian stories and this achievement means that these stones will now be recognized on one or the world’s most respected cinematic stages.”

The news is “a testament to the collective efforts of a community that believes in the power of South “Asian narratives,” she added. She thanked those who played a role in “this momentous achievement” for their “relentless efforts and hard work” including Ariel Brownstein, Richa Rudola, Fawzia Mirza, and Srihari Sathe. “It is your belief in us, our mission, and the stories we tell that has led us to this unprecedented moment.”

This year, the 18th edition of TSAFF will be held on October 11-22 as a hybrid event that combines in-person screenings in Bellevue and Seattle with an online program. Submissions remain open for the festival. “Through a series of film screenings, panels, post film Q&A, and networking opportunities, our goal is to involve audiences not just with the films presented, but to create a prolonged space where the social, political, personal, and international issues that form the core subjects of those works can be discussed and understood,” the nonprofit says on its website. It will bring together filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts to engage in discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities.