New York Indian Film Festival ended with the New York premiere of the film ‘My Big Fat Bride’ (Dum Laga Ke Haisha), a Yashraj production starring Ayushman Khurana, directed by Sharat Katariya. It’s a sweet romantic comedy, about a small town boy’s forced marriage to a bride of “not-his-choice”, because she’s “fat”, or he’s not “ready”. The film explores the conventional traditions around marriage and relationships, in India and also dwells in to people’s psyche around love and family. Even though the film is very predictable and clichéd and it’s still heartfelt, funny, light and fun. The performances of all the actors are on-the-spot, specially the debutant actress Bhumi Pednekar. The screening was followed by a discussion with the director, where he talked about upcoming releases of this film in US.

There were also wonderful performances by dancers of Bollywood Touch, Indian singer Falu. NYIFF2015 Awards ceremony followed right after, where ‘Labor of Love’ was the big winner with both Best Director and Best Film. Nawazuddin Siddiqui won the best actor for ‘Haraamkhor’ and best actress for Kalki Koechlin. After the award ceremony, the night moved on to the after-party with delicious dinner from Awadh Restaurant. Drinks flowed while the celebrities, filmmakers, actors, organizers, volunteers and everyone else enjoyed the night. There was also a beautiful dance performance by Anu Sahasrabudhe of Mudavis and a lovely fashion show of Indian attires. The closing night of the New York Indian Film Festival was truly joyful celebration of a wonderful event that celebrates Indian Independent films and cinema.