Persian director Abbasi named jury member at two festivals in South Africa, India
Tehran-based filmmaker Maysam Abbasi was appointed to serve on the juries of two international film festivals taking place in South Africa and India, reinforcing Iranian cinema’s footprint on the global stage.
Abbasi, a writer, producer and director of theatre and film, will judge entries at the International Tourism Film Festival Africa in Johannesburg from June 2 to 5, 2026, and the Asian Talent International Film Festival in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra from December 18 to 20, the Mehr News Agency reported.
At the South African event, now in its sixth edition, Abbasi will evaluate documentaries and tourism-themed films that spotlight travel narratives and cultural heritage.
The Indian festival in Ahmednagar, marking its fourth edition in October, brings together feature and short films from across Asia, offering emerging talents a showcase for innovative cinematic voices.
“I see festivals as bridges,” Abbasi said. “Cinema connects cultures and opens doors for creative exchange.” His films and theatrical projects have previously drawn attention on the domestic festival circuit and at regional showcases.
The International Tourism Film Festival Africa aims to elevate narratives that fuse travel content with cinematic craft, while the Asian Talent International Film Festival spotlights new voices in Asian filmmaking.