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ISAFF’s Red Carpet Gala: A Night of Cinematic Glamour & Creative Excellence

The iSAFF Red Carpet Gala was the talk of the festival season — a dazzling evening that merged cinematic brilliance with fashion-forward artistry. This year, the festival celebrated its fifteenth anniversary in spectacular style, hosting a sold-out gala that drew filmmakers, industry leaders, and supporters of South Asian cinema from across the country.

isaff, film festival, west coast luxury, vancouver, bc, helen siwak, folioyvr

Held at the SFU Surrey Engineering Building, the evening shimmered with excitement, conversation, and couture. From the moment guests stepped onto the red carpet, the energy was electric. Cameras flashed, laughter echoed, and the community came together to celebrate fifteen years of storytelling, artistry, and cultural pride.

isaff, film festival, west coast luxury, vancouver, bc, helen siwak, folioyvr

Among the many memorable highlights of the evening was the Fashion in Film: The Legends Relived showcase, which seamlessly wove together the worlds of cinema, costume, and creative expression. Directed by Akshay Tyagi and curated by Amit Dhuga, the night was a celebration of imagination and identity — a powerful reminder that fashion is not only about what we wear, but how we tell our stories through it.

THE ARTISTRY OF COSTUME AND STORYTELLING

The evening’s Artistry of Costume & Storytelling panel was a dynamic exploration of how visual design shapes narrative depth. Moderated by Zara Durrani, the discussion featured an inspiring panel including Sonia Mangat, Venk Modur, and Supinder Wraich, each offering unique perspectives on how costume design enhances character and emotion on screen.

Produced by Farah Hasan, the event captured the spirit of collaboration and creativity that defines iSAFF. As models graced the dancing catwalk, the crowd erupted with enthusiasm, celebrating not only the glamour but the substance — the artistry that lies behind the seams of storytelling.

isaff, film festival, west coast luxury, vancouver, bc, helen siwak, folioyvr

HONOURING TRAILBLAZERS AND VISIONARIES

As the evening unfolded, the anticipation built for the Gala Awards presentation — an inspiring moment recognizing the achievements of artists who have elevated South Asian cinema and redefined its global impact.

The inaugural Deepa Mehta Legacy Award was a poignant highlight, honouring the legendary filmmaker herself. Mehta’s fearless approach to storytelling and her ability to challenge convention have shaped generations of artists and audiences alike. Her presence throughout the festival inspired deep reflection and renewed appreciation for the transformative power of film.

The Icon Award went to Onir, celebrated for his boundary-pushing work and steadfast advocacy for representation in global cinema. His film We Are: Faheem and Karun screened before the Gala, a fitting prelude to his recognition for artistry that transcends borders.

The Leadership Award was presented to Supinder Wraich for her role as both performer and advocate, paving the way for diverse stories within Canada’s entertainment landscape.

Emerging talent was also spotlighted, with the Emerging Artist Award presented to Vancouver-based filmmaker Shubham Chhabra for his innovative short Good Enough?, while the DGC BC Director Spotlight Award went to Sarb Nagra, whose work continues to celebrate culture and community through authentic storytelling.

A CELEBRATION OF LEGACY AND COMMUNITY

From couture to creativity, the iSAFF Fashion in Films Gala embodied everything the festival stands for — courage, collaboration, and cultural pride. It was an evening that honoured visionaries, celebrated rising stars, and reminded every guest that the future of South Asian cinema is bright, bold, and beautifully unstoppable.

All photography by Mayuresh Ambekar.

isaff, film festival, west coast luxury, vancouver, bc, helen siwak, folioyvr

Author Profile

Helen Siwak, Luxury Lifestyle Observer: Helen Siwak is the founder of EcoLuxLuv Communications & Marketing Inc and publisher of Folio.YVR Luxury Lifestyle Magazine and PORTFOLIOY.YVR Business & Entrepreneurs Magazine. She is a prolific content creator, consultant, and marketing and media strategist within the ecoluxury lifestyle niche. Helen is the west coast correspondent to Canada’s top-read industry magazine Retail-Insider, holds a vast freelance portfolio, and consults with many of the world’s luxury heritage brands. Always seeking new opportunities and challenges, you can email her at [email protected].