Pakistani film Wakhri, inspired by the life of slain social media influencer Qandeel Baloch, has been selected for the South Asian Film Season 2026, organised by a British broadcaster.
The film is among nine productions from Pakistan, India and Bangladesh included in this year’s season, which aims to introduce South Asian cinema, filmmakers and stories to international audiences.
Released in Pakistan in 2024, Wakhri follows Noor Malik, a widowed schoolteacher whose life changes dramatically after she becomes an overnight social media sensation.
Directed by Iram Parveen Bilal and starring Faryal Gohar in the lead role, the film draws inspiration from Qandeel Baloch, the Pakistani social media influencer who was murdered in the name of honour.
Speaking to Geo Digital about the selection, producer Abid Aziz Merchant described the international screening as a form of validation for the team behind the film.
Merchant said Wakhri’s journey through international film festivals and its selection for the South Asian Film Season demonstrated that Pakistani stories could resonate with audiences around the world.
He added that at a challenging time for Pakistani cinema, the film’s international recognition offered hope and encouragement to other local filmmakers.
Wakhri has previously been showcased at major international film platforms, including Locarno, Cannes and Busan. It had its world premiere at the Red Sea International Film Festival in Jeddah in December 2023 before appearing at several international festivals in 2024.
The South Asian Film Season features dramas, thrillers and other productions exploring subjects including class divides, racial discrimination, political divisions and gender inequality.
