Punjabi Cinema to Shine on the Global Stage through PIFFLA Hollywood
Heritage and creativity of Punjabi cinema to be celebrated at the Punjabi International Film Festival Los Angeles
Initiative led by acclaimed actor Girija Shankar, known for his iconic role as Dhritarashtra in the 1980s epic Mahabharat
Chandigarh, 07 April 2025: Punjabi cinema is set to receive global recognition through a powerful cultural initiative—PIFFLA Hollywood (Punjabi International Film Festival Los Angeles). This annual festival aims to spotlight the rich heritage of Punjabi cinema, music, and arts at the heart of Hollywood.
Veteran actor and cultural ambassador Girija Shankar, who brought the character of Dhritarashtra to life in B.R. Chopra’s legendary television series Mahabharat, is leading this global movement. Addressing the media at the Chandigarh Press Club on Monday, Girija Shankar shared that PIFFLA Hollywood will be an annual celebration of Punjabi culture, designed to bridge the gap between South Asian storytelling and Western audiences.
“PIFFLA Hollywood will not only showcase the creative brilliance of the Punjabi and North Indian communities but also offer international artists a chance to collaborate with Hollywood,” Shankar said. The festival will feature feature films, documentaries, and short films, awarding excellence in categories such as Best Film, Director, Actor, Music Director, and Singer.
Through this festival, Girija Shankar aims to inspire young filmmakers and storytellers to create content with international appeal—positioning Punjabi cinema not just as regional entertainment, but as a global cinematic force.
Speaking about his journey, Girija Shankar shared:
“After years of theater in Patiala, I moved to Mumbai and had the opportunity to work with some of the finest directors and writers in the industry. I acted in the renowned TV serial Buniyaad, directed by Ramesh Sippy, and then in Mahabharat—one of the greatest television series of all time—directed by B.R. Chopra, where I portrayed the blind king Dhritarashtra. I also worked in the popular series Alif Laila by Ramanand Sagar, and in numerous films with legends like Mahesh Bhatt, Ram Gopal Varma, and many more.”
“While living abroad, I realized the immense potential for Punjabi cinema, music, and folk art to be appreciated globally—in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and beyond. That is why I founded the Punjabi International Film Festival in Los Angeles. The time has come to take our stories to the world through the platform of PIFFLA Hollywood.”
Sai Group CEO Rajiee Shinde, Senior TV and Film journalist Parvez Hussain Zaidi and Punjabi Cinema historian Manjit Sidhu also shared their views of the proposed PIFFLA, Hollyowod.