WORLD PREMIERE The Khawaja Saras of Pakistan have a distinct gender identity and a long cultural presence, having once served as advisors in the courts of Mughal kings. With queer life in the country suppressed by colonialism, the community has been driven to the social margins. Set in Rawalpindi, the film follows three exuberant Khawaja Saras, who defiantly forge their lives with dignity as they run a café that becomes a community mainstay and sanctuary. – Bedatri D. Choudhury
The first screening will be followed by a Q&A with director/producer Khaula Malik, producer Brit Fryer, and protagonist Bubbly Malik.
All in-person screening venues provide sound amplification headphones upon request with venue management. IFC Center can also provide a T-Coil loop for compatible devices.
Director: Khaula Malik
Producer: Khaula Malik, Afhnan Khan, Brit Fryer
Executive Producer: Andria Wilson Mirza, D.D. Wigley, Pamela Liou
Cinematographer: Alexandra Hart Brown
Editor: Fahd Ahmed
Composer: William Ryan Fritch
Language: Urdu, Punjabi
Year: 2026