IN ASSOCIATION WITH FIRDAUS STUDIO BY A.R. RAHMAN
Ayah, in association with Firdaus Studio by A.R. Rahman, a meta-spiritual short film made in the United Arab Emirates by activist filmmaker Zenofar Fathima, has begun to win accolades such as Best International Short Film during its global festival circuit which was initiated last month. The film, which is directed and conceptualized by Fathima, as well as written and directed by Afraah Farhana and composed by music composer and singer Hiral Viradia, encompasses a poignant yet pithy message that surrounds faith in God and miracles in times of helplessness and despair.
Shortly after exclusively screening the film to cast & crew, the media and renowned public figures such as musician and director at the A.R. Rahman Foundation Khatija Rahman with a glamorous premiere at the Novo Cinemas 7 Star at Ibn Battuta, the film began its festival route in efforts to reach international audiences. The project is proudly under the patronage of Emirati princess, philanthropist and entrepreneur Sheikha Hend bint Faisal Al-Qasimi.
The film, which has been submitted to over 70 festivals globally, had recently bagged Best International Short Film award at Athvikvaruni Film Festival as well as the Tamizhagam International Film Festival headquartered in Chennai, India. Moreover, the film has now reached the quarter finals of The Cuckoo International Film Awards, wherein it will be exclusively screened to university students of the prestigious Loyola College, a Chennai-based, private higher education institution that boasts alumni such as Tamil cinema powerhouses Vijay and Suriya.
“I’m extremely excited to have Ayah transcend international boundaries and bag numerous awards in just less than a month. I am grateful that I’m able to share the message of believing in a higher power when times become tough with not just UAE audiences but international audiences as well , especially in a post pandemic world,” said Fathima.
The short, which promises to tug at the heartstrings of viewers through its fusing of film and theater, has not won its accolades without reason. Ayah, which is now Fathima’s third spiritual short, has managed to win over film critics, the public, and even stars such as Indian TV & Film actor Rohit Roy who is known for his work in films such as Shootout at Lokhandwala and Kaabil. “(Ayah) is an excellent film that has a deep spiritual layer to it, and it truly gives me hope,” said Roy. “I’m genuinely blown away by the film in its entirety, the concept, and the spectacular performances.”
The film is currently making its way into national and international film festivals and is currently not be available for public viewing or screening until further notice.
