Bangladeshi filmmaker Nahid Hasan’s independent short fiction film Subal has been officially selected for the Asian Eye section of the Bengaluru International Short Film Festival (BISFF) 2026.
It is India’s only Academy Awards (Oscar)-qualifying festival dedicated exclusively to short films, with qualifying categories including the International, Indian and Animation sections.
The selection marks a significant milestone for the 15-minute film, placing it among a curated line-up of Asian short films at India’s largest short film festival and the country’s only Academy Awards (Oscar)-qualifying festival dedicated exclusively to short films.
The Bengaluru International Short Film Festival will be held in Bengaluru, India, from 14 to 16 August 2026, bringing together filmmakers, industry professionals and cinema enthusiasts from around the world.
Written, directed and produced by Nahid Hasan, Subal follows the journey of a Baul folk singer while exploring themes of displacement, memory and the enduring relationship between people and place.
Blending social realism with an intimate observational style, the film examines identity, resilience and belonging in contemporary Bangladesh through a quiet yet emotionally resonant narrative.
Produced independently in Bangladesh, the film features a cast largely comprising first-time actors and continues Hasan’s exploration of human stories rooted in memory and place.
The project also brings together creative talent from Bangladesh and Germany.
German producer Christoph Thoke serves as co-producer, while Yannic Thoke joins the project as associate producer, reflecting the film’s international collaborative approach.
Reacting to the announcement, Nahid Hasan described the selection as a major achievement for the film.
“This selection is an important milestone for the film. Having our world premiere at BISFF, one of South Asia’s leading short film festivals, is a tremendous honour. I hope Subal resonates with audiences beyond Bangladesh and opens new conversations across cultures,” he said.
Founded in 2010, the Bengaluru International Short Film Festival has established itself as one of South Asia’s leading platforms for short cinema.
The festival has become a prominent platform for emerging filmmakers and independent cinema from across the world.
Following its world premiere at BISFF, Subal will continue its international festival journey.
