Bangladeshi film ‘Saatao’ has added another international honour to its journey, winning Best International Feature Film at the 14th Nepal Africa International Film Festival in Kathmandu.
Directed by Khandaker Sumon, the film was released in 2023 but continues to attract global attention. Reacting to the award, Sumon said the recognition was especially meaningful years after the film’s release, noting that stories rooted in human experience remain relevant over time.
The festival featured 43 films from 20 countries, with 23 international titles competing in the Best International Feature Film category. Saatao emerged as the top winner among a diverse international lineup.
Bangladesh also received recognition in other sections of the festival. Shayla Rahman Tithi’s ‘Letter of the Fallen Leaves’ won Best International Female Film, while Sagar Islam’s ‘No Dice’ received a Special Mention in the International Shorts category.
The international jury was led by Nepalese filmmaker Raju KC and included Bangladeshi director Supin Barman alongside film professionals from South Africa and other countries. The awards were announced at the festival’s closing ceremony on January 19.
Although unable to attend the event in person, Sumon said he learned of the win directly from festival director Dabbu Kshetri.
Saatao, which explores climate, economic pressures and human relationships in rural Bangladesh, has previously been screened and praised at several international film festivals.
