About the 1st and 2nd Bamyan film festival in Afghanistan

The Significance of the Bamyan Film Festival (2017 & 2019)
The Bamyan Film Festival, first launched in 2017, has played a crucial role in fostering Afghanistan’s emerging film industry. Organized by Bamiyan Art Academy, the festival provided a platform for local filmmakers to showcase their work, share untold stories, and engage with audiences. The inaugural event drew over 1,000 attendees, featuring award-winning films like Single Mom, Dambura, and The Holy Book, which gained national recognition.

The 2019 edition of the festival built on this success, celebrating impactful films such as The Neighbor, Dream of Bakhti, and The Color of Love. These films highlighted social issues, cultural heritage, and personal narratives, reflecting Afghanistan’s rich storytelling tradition.

Beyond local exposure, the festival’s influence extended internationally, as many participating films later won awards in Sweden, Iran, and Afghanistan. The Bamiyan Film Festival became a key driver in Afghanistan’s independent film movement, contributing to the country’s cinematic development and cultural preservation. Through this initiative, Bamiyan Art Academy has strengthened the presence of Afghan filmmakers on both national and global stages, ensuring their voices and stories continue to be heard.