South Asian film festival returning to Mississauga and Brampton in October

A major South Asian film festival is returning to Mississauga and Brampton next month.

The International Film Festival of South Asia (IFFSA) Toronto 2024 is set to run from Oct. 10 to 20, with events in the Greater Toronto Area. The festival is the largest of its kind in North America, organizers say.

“The 13th edition of the festival promises an unforgettable experience with a stellar lineup of premieres and special events featuring some of the biggest names in the film industry, including guests of honour Imtiaz Ali, Deepa Mehta, Boman Irani, and Anup Singh,” a press release from IFFSA says.

The festival will also honour Shabana Azmi, who the release said is “one of Indian cinema’s most revered icons.”

Irani’s film The Mehta Boys, which was co-written by Oscar winner Alexander Dinelaris Jr., will have its Canadian premiere as the festival’s opening film.

“Beyond film screenings, IFFSA Toronto 2024 will offer a range of masterclasses and workshops, including one on acting, The Open Gesture, with festival ambassador and renowned filmmaker Anup Singh, and the launch of the IFFSA Talent Fund 2024/25, providing exciting opportunities for emerging filmmakers,” the release says.

The festival has always been held in the Mississauga, Brampton and Toronto area.

To see a full list of films and events that are happening during IFFSA, visit the festival’s website.