Join us Sunday afternoon at 1PM for Sikhlens’ Sunday Afternoon Session #2, presenting the following short films:

I Will Meet You Yet Again: Contemporary Sikh Art
I Will Meet You Yet Again: Contemporary Sikh Art captures an extraordinary exhibition at UCLA’s Fowler Museum, curated by Sonia Dhami and Syona Puliady. Through paintings, posters, tapestries, and multimedia installations, the exhibition offers a contemporary lens on Sikh culture, history, and identity. The documentary, produced by the Sikhlens Community Voices Program, features curator Sonia Dhami discussing the vision, artists, and challenges of bringing this diverse collection together. More than an art showcase, it highlights how such exhibitions create platforms for cross-cultural dialogue on heritage, resilience, and the evolving Sikh narrative.

Gift of Light
Gift of Light follows Dr. Gurpal Bhullar, an orthopedic surgeon, who organizes a free three-day eye camp in a small village in Punjab. Locals are offered check-ups, treatments, and even free surgeries — transforming lives and restoring sight, one patient at a time.

Lifting Together
Lifting Together is an intimate short documentary that follows the journey of national record-holding weightlifter Harmanpreet Kaur and her husband-coach Sukhwinderpal Singh Padda, a professor and former athlete. Set in Punjab, India, the film explores their shared dedication to the sport, the gender and societal challenges they face, and the unique strength of their partnership—both on and off the lifting platform.

Flying High-Falcons Sikh Primary School
Flying High-Falcons Sikh Primary School celebrates the 10-year journey of Falcons Primary School – the first faith school in Leicestershire. It showcases how its dedicated staff, families, and community members work together to inspire student who embody the school motto & “To be the best we can be.”

Hidden Gems
Hidden Gems follows Naranjan Singh Khalsa, a Sikh miner, as he traverses the rugged landscapes of the western United States, particularly Nevada. The documentary explores Naranjan’s interactions with local mining families renowned for their turquoise extraction. Through his journey, viewers gain insight into the dedication and craftsmanship required to bring precious gems to market, while also uncovering the rich history and cultural significance of small-scale mining in America. The film advocates for supporting local mining communities and encourages audiences to appreciate the origins of the gemstones they admire.

#kalyug (Age of Darkness) 
Raj, a rising actor in Bollywood, faces controversy after a reckless tweet in today’s politically charged climate. His attempt to speak truth to power makes him an industry outlier amid rising censorship. As real-world consequences mount, he encounters a mysterious woman in his dreams who offers him an impossible choice. Torn between doing what’s right for the greater good or staying silent for personal gain, Raj must decide. His choice will impact not just his life, but countless others for generations to come.

Amritsar Junction
Amritsar Junction is a film based on a Sikh family’s experiences during the Partition of India in 1947.This traumatic episode in the region’s history resulted in the expulsion of Sikhs from the Punjab, their traditional homeland and the center of their religion and culture. With the division of colonial India into the nation-states of India and Pakistan, there was extraordinary violence, torment, and bloodshed, and mass migration of refugees on both sides of the new border. The main character worked for the British-built railway system, which played a pivotal role in the refugee experience during the Partition.

As Dusk Falls
The promise of a bigger and better life in Canada where his older brother has already settled has long inundated the dreams of Navraj, a young Punjabi man in Chandigarh. But when his long-awaited visa finally gets approved, he realizes the cost of leaving home may be far greater than he ever anticipated. More than leaving behind his friends, he cannot bear to break the news to his beloved grandmother who adoringly depends on him.

Randhawa Foundation
Meet the noble Randhawa family, founders of the Randhawa Foundation, a US-registered NGO. This film shines a light on their incredible work — from organizing free medical camps for the underprivileged to running a school that educates and empowers children in their native village in India.

Pursuit of Happiness According to Guru Tegh Bahadur
Jessi Kaur provides a reflection on Guru Tegh Bahadur’s legacy.

This session will be screening in Theater 2. The content, selections, and schedule subject to change without notice.

ABOUT SIKHLENS ARTS AND FILM FESTIVAL

CALLING ALL ART LOVERS, FILM ENTHUSIASTS, AND CHAMPIONS OF CULTURAL DIVERSITY!

This November 21st–23rd, the much-anticipated Sikhlens: Sikh Arts and Film Festival is set to dazzle and unite communities at The Frida Cinema. Prepare to embark on a journey celebrating Sikh heritage and culture through the world of film and art!

Sikhlens is excited to announce their annual film festival highlighting Sikh arts, books, and cinema across three days at The Frida Cinema. Kicking off with a glamorous Red Carpet Night, the celebration continues throughout the weekend with back-to-back screenings from morning to night. A returning favorite is the “Creative Sikhs” session, where prominent Sikh creatives in film and literature share their journeys in an engaging Q&A.

Interspersed across both days are short films from talented filmmakers worldwide. Each evening concludes with a major Sikh feature film, including Chal Mera Putt 4, Akaal: The Unconquered, Sardaar Ji 3, and Mittran Da Challeya Truck Ni. Join us as we celebrate the vibrant tapestry of Sikh cinema and storytelling at this not-to-be-missed annual event.

Why Attend?

• Diverse Narratives: Experience compelling stories that touch hearts and open minds, showcasing films cultivated through Sikhlens programs.
• Cultural Immersion: Engage in a dynamic cultural exchange and deepen your appreciation for the richness of Sikh heritage.
• Networking: Connect with artists, filmmakers, and fellow Sikhlens supporters.

Let’s Celebrate Together!

Sikhlens warmly invite the Sikh community, as well as friends from all backgrounds, to join this celebration of art, film, and unity. Bring your friends and be part of this inspiring cultural experience. Let’s come together to celebrate creativity and connection through film and art!