Three Indian films—Saali Mohabbat, Ghamasaan, and Bun Tikki—will shine at the 16th Chicago South Asian Film Festival 2025. Featuring powerful stories, stellar casts, and acclaimed directors, these Jio Studios projects bring bold narratives of resilience, identity, and cultural roots to global cinema from September 18–21.
Indian cinema continues to leave its mark on international platforms, and this year is no exception. Jio Studios has announced that three of its highly anticipated upcoming films — Ghamasaan, Saali Mohabbat, and Bun Tikki — have been officially selected to screen at the prestigious 16th Chicago South Asian Film Festival (CSAFF). Scheduled to run from September 18 to 21, 2025, the festival will feature these films on three consecutive days, each representing diverse narratives, genres, and creative visions from India’s vibrant film industry.
Saali Mohabbat: A Bold Directorial Debut by Tisca Chopra
The screenings will begin on September 19 with Saali Mohabbat, marking the directorial debut of Tisca Chopra. Known for her acting prowess in Indian cinema, Chopra takes the director’s seat for the first time with this hard-hitting social drama.
The film tells the story of a small-town woman who bravely challenges domestic violence and betrayal, weaving an empowering tale of resilience and self-discovery. With a stellar ensemble cast featuring Radhika Apte, Anshumaan Pushkar, Dibyendu Ganguly, and Anurag Kashyap, the film promises to deliver both emotional depth and impactful storytelling.
Produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Saali Mohabbat also holds special significance as it marks the production debut of renowned fashion designer and stylist Manish Malhotra, who has ventured into filmmaking with this project. The film’s presence at CSAFF sets the stage for a powerful debut on an international platform.
Ghamasaan: Tigmanshu Dhulia’s Rural Thriller
On September 20, the festival will showcase Ghamasaan, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Tigmanshu Dhulia. Known for his sharp storytelling and rooted narratives, Dhulia brings audiences a tense rural thriller that reflects India’s cultural heartland.
The film delves into themes of identity, conflict, and the country’s journey as a young nation grappling with its past while moving toward its future. Featuring Pratik Gandhi, Arshad Warsi, and Ishita Dutta in pivotal roles, Ghamasaan is poised to be a thought-provoking cinematic experience.
The production team behind the project includes Jyoti Deshpande, Piiyush Singh, Ashwini Chaudhary, Abhayanand Singh, and Saurabh Gupta. With Dhulia’s direction and a compelling narrative, the film promises to resonate deeply with both Indian and international audiences.
Bun Tikki: A Soul-Stirring Coming-of-Age Drama
Closing out Jio Studios’ showcase at CSAFF is Bun Tikki, scheduled for screening on September 21. Directed by Faraz Arif Ansari, the film captures the delicate struggles of childhood, identity, and acceptance.
With a narrative rooted in tenderness, courage, and the complexities of growing up, Bun Tikki is a deeply moving drama. The film features an extraordinary cast, including cinema legends Shabana Azmi and Zeenat Aman, alongside Abhay Deol, Nushrratt Bharuccha, and Rohaan Singh.
Produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Dinesh Malhotra, Marijke DeSousa, and Manish Malhotra, the film also represents Ansari’s feature film debut, further adding to its significance. The project has already garnered attention for its sensitive storytelling, with Jio Studios describing it as a “soul-stirring story of family, love, and identity.”
On social media, the makers expressed their excitement, stating:
“#JioStudios & #Stage5Production are thrilled to present Bun Tikki… a poignant coming-of-age drama featuring icons like Shabana Azmi, Zeenat Aman & Abhay Deol alongside Nushrratt Bharuccha and Rohaan Singh. This Marquee Film in #JioStudiosSelects will light up the 16th Chicago South Asian Film Festival 2025.”
A Milestone for Indian Cinema on the Global Stage
The inclusion of Saali Mohabbat, Ghamasaan, and Bun Tikki in CSAFF underscores the growing recognition of Indian cinema beyond commercial Bollywood blockbusters. These films explore complex issues such as domestic violence, rural conflicts, and identity crises, showcasing the versatility and depth of contemporary Indian storytelling.
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For Jio Studios and its collaborators, this moment also highlights the rising significance of Indian producers, writers, and directors in shaping narratives that connect with a global audience. With each film carrying a unique voice, their collective presence at the 16th CSAFF cements India’s place as a powerful contributor to world cinema.
As audiences in Chicago prepare to witness these films between September 18 and 21, the anticipation is high for how international viewers will receive these stories that are deeply rooted in India’s cultural and social realities yet resonate universally.
