Pakistani film Wakhri selected for South Asian Film Season 2026

The Pakistani film ‘Wakhri’ has been selected for the South Asian Film Season 2026, organized by the British broadcaster Channel 4. The film is one of nine productions from Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh chosen to showcase regional stories to international audiences.

Directed by Iram Parveen Bilal, the drama follows Noor Malik, a widowed schoolteacher who becomes an overnight social media sensation. While the story is fictional, it draws inspiration from the life and public image of the late Pakistani social media personality Qandeel Baloch. The film explores themes of identity, gender expectations, and the pressures of sudden online fame.

Producer Abid Aziz Merchant noted that the selection serves as validation for the production team and demonstrates that Pakistani stories can resonate globally. ‘Wakhri’ has previously been showcased at international platforms such as the Cannes, Locarno, and Busan film festivals, following its world premiere at the Red Sea International Film Festival.