Feryna Wazheir reprises her role as Brand Ambassador for the London Indian Film Festival 2026

British-Asian actor and producer Feryna Wazheir has reprised her role as Brand Ambassador for the London Indian Film Festival 2026, continuing her association with one of Europe’s leading showcases of Indian and South Asian independent cinema.

Now in its 17th year and helmed by Cary Rajinder Sawhney MBE, the London edition of the festival is taking place from 9–16 July 2026, presenting a vibrant programme of international premieres, restored classics, emerging British-Asian filmmaking talent, industry events and conversations with some of the most influential names in cinema.

The festival is supported by a distinguished group of patrons, including acclaimed veteran filmmakers Shekhar Kapur and Prakash Jha, whose work has made an enduring contribution to Indian and international cinema.

Wazheir attended the festival’s opening gala at BFI Southbank in her role as Brand Ambassador, supporting LIFF’s continued commitment to championing independent filmmakers and bringing a diverse range of South Asian stories to audiences across the United Kingdom.

For the occasion, Feryna was dressed by Mani Kohli MBE, couturier and heritage fashion specialist, in a shimmering magenta-pink Anarkali. The ensemble was brought to life with intricate beaded hand embroidery and styled with a delicately bordered tulle dupatta and coordinating beaded belt, designed to accentuate the waist.

Speaking about her return, Wazheir said, “It is a privilege to return as a Brand Ambassador for the London Indian Film Festival. LIFF has always created an important space for distinctive, independent voices and for stories that reflect the breadth and complexity of the South Asian experience. I am delighted to support a festival that continues to connect filmmakers and audiences across cultures.”

The festival opened at BFI Southbank on 9 July with the European premiere of 52 Blue, a poignant and uplifting coming-of-age drama directed by award-winning filmmaker Ali El Arabi, whose previous work includes the acclaimed documentary Captains of Zaatari.

Set partly against the backdrop of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, 52 Blue stars Neha Dhupia, Adil Hussain and Yadav Shashidhar. Director Ali El Arabi was joined by Neha Dhupia, Yadav Shashidhar and Arya Appukuttan for a special opening-night introduction and audience Q&A.

The festival will conclude at BFI Southbank on 16 July with a rare live conversation featuring celebrated actor and filmmaker Aamir Khan. The closing event coincides with the 25th anniversary of Khan’s Academy Award-nominated epic Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India, which receives a special anniversary screening at BFI IMAX on 12 July.

This year’s programme also includes a reunion of the cast and creators of the landmark BBC comedy series Goodness Gracious Me, new Indian and South Asian feature films and shorts, restored classics, and a special showcase examining the developing relationship between artificial intelligence and filmmaking.

Through her continued involvement as Brand Ambassador, Wazheir joins the festival in highlighting cinema’s ability to cross borders, encourage dialogue and introduce audiences to bold creative voices from India, the United Kingdom and the wider South Asian diaspora.

Feryna Wazheir is a British-Asian actor and producer whose screen career spans Indian and international cinema. Alongside her work as a performer, she is actively involved in developing and supporting film projects that encourage meaningful cross-cultural collaboration and stronger representation within the screen industries.

The London Indian Film Festival is an annual celebration of independent Indian and South Asian cinema. Its 17th edition presents premieres, special screenings, restored classics, industry events and live conversations across London, with associated festival editions and screenings taking place in Birmingham, Manchester and other UK cities.