SAFF 2024 :: SUNDAY MATINEES
Event Details
On Sunday, November 24th, we will host programs in two theaters at The Frida Cinema, starting at 1:00 PM. All matinee sessions listed below are free of charge. You can get your tickets at your local Southern California gurdwara, or at the theater on the day of the event.
The Frida Cinema
305 E 4th St #100
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Phone: (714) 285-9422
The content, selections, and schedule subject to change without notice.
1:00 PM – 2:30 PM – AFTERNOON SESSION 1 – THEATER 1
SUSPENDED
Mustafa, a fourteen-year-old teenager, lives in difficult conditions with his father, who is an addict, after his birth. His father wants to put him on welfare, but he is trying to find his mother, whom he has never met, in order to have a better life.
KUSH
Kush dedicated to the children and their teacher who showed courage and compassion in 1984 when their safety was in jeopardy.
EXCERPTS FROM RIDING THE TIGER
Riding the Tiger is a harrowing documentary that exposes the Indian Government-sponsored genocide of Sikhs in Delhi and surrounding areas following Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s assassination in 1984. Through real-life footage captured by the filmmaker, the film reveals the shocking brutality of the three-day massacre, where countless Sikh men, women, and children were subjected to unspeakable violence and murder. This film provides excerpts from the original film.
1:00 PM – 1:45 PM – AFTERNOON SESSIONS 2 – THEATER 2
MY PHONE MY LIFE
A candid look at people and their phones during the International Jaipur Literature Festival 2024.
THE ODE TO PARTITION
Marking 75 years since the Partition of India, this film explores the complex identities of four British Asians. It delves into their struggle to reconcile their British and South Asian heritage, examining the lasting impact of Empire and Partition on their sense of belonging and cultural identity.
MADE WITH LOVE
This film portrays a retired schoolteacher who creates intricate models from waste materials. It explores Sindhi culture while emphasizing the importance of women in society. The narrative follows a woman’s journey to appreciate her own significance, blending themes of creativity, cultural heritage, and female empowerment.
GHAR
GHAR is a unique integrated living community in India that houses orphaned girls, women with disabilities, and the elderly under one roof, creating a nurturing environment where three generations support each other while fostering education, dignity, and companionship. Founded by retired Colonel Mickie Uberoi, this self-sustaining community transforms lives by creating true family bonds across generations.
1:45 PM – 2:30 PM – FOR MATURE AUDIENCES – THEATER 2
Parental Guidance is highly recommended for this session, due to possible language and mature subjectivity of the films in this session.
SAMLINGI
This documentary sheds light on the LGBTQIA+ community in Punjab, addressing the discrimination and challenges they face due to their perceived differences. It amplifies their voices, sharing their struggles and resistance against societal prejudice, while advocating for respect and understanding.
…THE SPEECH IN NOVEMBER
Rajiv Gandhi has been sworn in as Prime Minister immediately after his mother Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi is assassinated by her two Sikh bodyguards. What follows next is the moving speech from Rajiv Gandhi and the aftermath which followed.
2:30 PM – 3:00 PM – LIVE PERFORMANCE – THEATER 1
JAAGDE RAHO
Jaagde Raho explores moral dilemmas during religious riots as elderly Bachhitar Singh shelters a stranger against his son Narinder’s wishes. Set in one night, the play examines generational conflicts, fear, trust, and compassion. It challenges viewers to consider the importance of empathy and difficult choices during societal upheaval.
DAVINDER SINGH
Davinder Singh is an acclaimed Indo-Canadian director, actor, and producer known for impactful projects like Waleed, What’s Your Identity, and Beneath the Makeup. Waleed earned honors as the 3rd Best North Indian Film. Singh’s recent productions include Apna Farz; Basera; Patka Box; Bold Helmets; Khalsa Centre – Simran, Seva, Sangat; Deportations 700; and Benaqab Chehre on Chaupal TV. With several compelling films in the pipeline for 2024, Singh continues to garner attention for his directorial skills.
ONLY KEWAL
Over the past decade, Only Kewal has honed his acting craft across a range of theatrical productions. He finds joy in both comedic and socially conscious roles, appreciating the chance to explore varied emotions and insights into society. Since 2013, Kewal has performed with multiple theatre groups, most recently acting in three Punjabi stage plays in 2023. His repertoire also includes a supporting role in the short film Identity.
MRIDUL SHARMA
Since childhood, Mridul has pursued his passion for acting, formally launching his career in 2018 after graduating from Toronto Film School. With three years of theater experience, he has built a diverse portfolio that includes student short films and Punjabi music videos, as well as background roles in major productions like Dan Brown’s “The Lost Symbol” and “The Mayor of Kingstown.”
Dedicated to his craft, Mridul maintains a rigorous daily practice routine focusing on monologues, voice work, and scene study. He has also expanded his skill set as a member of a stunt team, where he trains in hand-to-hand combat, knife fighting, boxing, and various jumping techniques. Whether big or small, Mridul approaches every opportunity with enthusiasm and commitment, constantly seeking to grow as a performer.
RISHI PURI
Rishi Puri is a playwright whose work celebrates the transformative power of theater to unite communities and inspire change. Through his plays, he masterfully explores themes of social justice, romance, religious conflict, and political issues, viewing the stage as a platform where everyday struggles find their voice and individuals discover their inner strength.His play “Itihaas Gawaah Hai” has been featured at prestigious venues including the Satrang Festival, Punjabi Art of Association, and Sikhlens. Beyond playwriting, Puri is also an accomplished poet who regularly performs his work on stage, embodying his belief in the collaborative spirit of theater and the importance of amplifying community voices.Currently, Puri is collaborating with the Sikhlens team on his latest production, “Jaagde Raho,” as he continues his journey of storytelling through theater.