NAQSH Digital Film Festival
Last date for submission of entries for NAQSH Digital Film Festival 2023 has been extended to 22nd September, 2023.
If you have any issues regarding uploading of films on the portal, kindly share the films (along with film description, film poster and contact number) with us through Google Drive Open Access Link at ndff@fjwu.edu.pk
Naqsh Digital Film Festival (NDFF) is an initiative of Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi (FJWU) launched initially in the year 2022. NDFF, in general, is a Platform provided by Communication and Media Studies Department (CMS) of Fatima Jinnah Women University with the broad objectives to promote creativity among students and general youth. It is a joint effort of faculty members and students of CMS for Young and amateur film-makers to visualize their ideas and display their talent.
NDFF will provide the young and emerging film makers with an opportunity to showcase their talent digitally to the mass audience as well as get their work reviewed by experienced and expert professional of the Pakistani media industry.
This year we are organizing the 2nd Naqsh Digital Film Festival in collaboration with UNFPA for the ambitious and enthusiastic youth of Pakistan. This festival is also supported by RIME Digital, PTV Films, Directors Guild of Pakistan and Cheezious
Important Time Lines:
Submissions will be Open:1st August, 2023
Last date of Submissions:’22nd September, 2023
Lucrative Cash Prizes around 1 Million in 6 categories:
- Best Film Rs. 2,50,000
- Best Documentary Rs. 2,50,000
- Best Cinematography Rs. 1,00,000
- Best Editing Rs. 1,00,000
- Best Film Students Rs. 1,50,000
- Best Documentary Students Rs. 1,50,000
Themes for the Films and Documentaries
Theme-1 Women Empowerment
Sub Themes:
Challenging Gender Norms: Highlighting stories of women who challenge traditional gender norms and societal expectations, showcasing their journeys of empowerment and breaking barriers. Women's Education and Empowerment: Exploring the significance of education in empowering women, highlighting initiatives that promote girls' education, address barriers to education, and showcase the transformative impact education has on women's lives. Economic Empowerment and Entrepreneurship: Showcasing stories of women entrepreneurs, highlighting their achievements, challenges, and contributions to the economy. Focusing on initiatives that support women's economic empowerment and address gender disparities in the workforce. Violence Against Women: Addressing the prevalent issue of violence against women in Pakistani society, including domestic violence, honor killings, acid attacks, and harassment. Promoting awareness, advocacy, and discussions on prevention, support, and justice for survivors. Women in Leadership and Politics: Celebrating women leaders and politicians who have made significant contributions to Pakistani society, highlighting their achievements, challenges, and efforts to promote gender equality and women's rights in various fields. Child Marriage: These themes provide a foundation for filmmakers to explore and create impactful films that showcase women's empowerment and address social issues in the Pakistani context. The films can raise awareness, challenge stereotypes, inspire change, and promote dialogue on these important topics.
Theme-2 Peace and Tolerance
Subthemes:
Interfaith Harmony: Promoting religious tolerance and highlighting efforts that foster understanding, respect, and peaceful coexistence among different religious communities in Pakistan. Countering Extremism and Radicalization: Addressing the challenges of extremism and radicalization in Pakistani society, showcasing stories of individuals and initiatives that promote tolerance, inclusivity, and peace building. Unity in Diversity: Celebrating the cultural, ethnic, and linguistic diversity of Pakistan, emphasizing the importance of unity, tolerance, and acceptance of different identities and backgrounds. Resolving Ethnic and Sectarian Conflicts: Exploring conflicts arising from ethnic and sectarian differences in Pakistan, focusing on initiatives and stories that promote dialogue, reconciliation, and peaceful resolution. Women's Role in Peace building: Showcasing the significant role of women in promoting peace, tolerance, and social cohesion, highlighting their efforts as peace builders, community leaders, and agents of positive change. These themes provide filmmakers with an opportunity to create films that explore the Pakistani context and contribute to promoting peace, harmony, and tolerance within the society. The films can highlight inspiring stories, challenges, and initiatives that address these themes, fostering understanding and encouraging dialogue among diverse communities
Theme-3 Digital Horizons /Digital Pakistan
Subthemes
Digital Transformation and Empowerment: Showcasing stories of individuals and communities who have harnessed the power of digital technology to bring about positive social change, improve access to information, and empower marginalized groups. Bridging the Digital Divide: Addressing the issue of the digital divide in Pakistan, highlighting initiatives and projects that aim to bridge the gap, increase digital literacy, and ensure equitable access to digital resources and opportunities. Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Celebrating digital innovators, startups, and entrepreneurs in Pakistan who have leveraged technology to create innovative solutions, promote economic growth, and drive digital entrepreneurship in various sectors. E-Governance and Digital Citizenship: Exploring the role of digital technologies in promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance. Showcasing initiatives that facilitate e-governance, digital services, and citizen engagement platforms. Digital Inclusion and Education: Highlighting initiatives that promote digital inclusion in education, showcasing innovative approaches to digital learning, online education platforms, and the impact of technology in enhancing educational opportunities for all. These themes provide a platform for filmmakers to showcase the digital transformation happening in Pakistan and its impact on society, economy, and governance. The films can inspire, educate, and spark conversations about the potential of digital technologies in shaping a more inclusive, connected, and prosperous Pakistan.
Theme 4 Environment and Climate Change
Subthemes
Climate Change Impacts: Addressing the specific impacts of climate change on Pakistan, including extreme weather events, water scarcity, rising temperatures, and their effects on ecosystems, agriculture, and communities. Conservation and Biodiversity: Highlighting the rich biodiversity of Pakistan and the importance of conservation efforts to protect endangered species, ecosystems, and natural resources. Sustainable Development: Showcasing innovative approaches and initiatives that promote sustainable development in Pakistan, focusing on renewable energy, eco-friendly practices, waste management, and sustainable agriculture. Climate Justice and Adaptation: Exploring the concept of climate justice and the disproportionate impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities in Pakistan. Highlighting adaptation strategies, resilience-building, and community-led initiatives. Environmental Activism and Advocacy: Celebrating the efforts of environmental activists and organizations in Pakistan, showcasing their campaigns, grassroots movements, and advocacy work to raise awareness and bring about positive change. These themes provide a platform to raise awareness, educate, and inspire action on environmental issues and climate change in the Pakistani context. The films can showcase the challenges, success stories, and innovative solutions, while promoting a greater understanding of the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable practices for a better future.
Theme 5 Pakistan – A Touristic Destination
Subthemes
Cultural Heritage: Explore the rich cultural heritage of Pakistan, showcasing its historical sites, architectural wonders, and traditional arts and crafts. Highlight the diverse traditions, festivals, and rituals that make Pakistan a unique and captivating destination for travelers. Natural Beauty: Showcase the breathtaking landscapes of Pakistan, from the majestic Himalayan peaks to the serene valleys, pristine lakes, and lush green forests. Feature the country's national parks, wildlife reserves, and natural wonders, emphasizing the biodiversity and natural beauty that attract nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Adventure Tourism: Focus on the adventurous side of Pakistan, highlighting activities such as mountaineering, trekking, skiing, rafting, and paragliding. Feature the famous Karakoram Highway, K2 (the second-highest mountain in the world), and other thrilling destinations that make Pakistan an ideal place for adrenaline junkies. Religious Tourism: Explore the religious diversity and significance of Pakistan, showcasing important religious sites such as the ancient city of Taxila, the historic Badshahi Mosque in Lahore, and the sacred Buddhist ruins in Taxila and Swat Valley. Highlight the spiritual experiences and pilgrimages that attract religious tourists from around the world. Culinary Delights: Focus on the vibrant Pakistani cuisine, known for its flavors, spices, and diverse regional dishes. Feature the street food culture, traditional recipes, and the unique fusion of flavors from various ethnic groups. Showcase the colorful food markets, restaurants, and culinary experiences that make Pakistan a gastronomic paradise.
These subthemes provide a comprehensive and engaging exploration of Pakistan as a touristic destination, allowing viewers to appreciate the country's cultural, natural, adventurous, spiritual, and culinary aspects.
Selected documentaries and films will be telecasted on PTV-Film with the due credit of the film makers. Telecasting films on PTV Films can provide a platform for students and amateurs to showcase their own work. This exposure can help individuals gain recognition, build their portfolios, and potentially open doors for future opportunities in the film industry.
Esteemed Panel of Judges
To ensure a comprehensive and fair evaluation process, we have established two tiers of judges. The first tier consists of a distinguished panel of in-house judges, each with their own expertise and experience in the industry. This panel includes:
- Mr. Pervaiz Akhtar (Chief Cameraperson-PTV and Educationist)
- Mr. Sajid Munir (Former Director of Media Lok Virsa and Documentary Film Producer)
- Ms. Anna Kazmi (TV/Film Producer)
- Dr. Ahmer Sohail Busra (Film Critic, Writer, and Broadcaster)
- Ms. Nergis Hashmi (Former Executive Director at PTV and Documentary Film Producer)
These internal jury members will precisely review and shortlist a total of 25 documentaries and 25 films that will be showcased at the final event in October.
The shortlisted films and documentaries will then proceed to the main and second tier of judging, where they will be screened and evaluated by a distinguished panel of judges. This second tier includes:
- Mr. Shahzad Nawaz (Actor/Producer/Director/Designer)
- Mr. Noor-ul-Hassan (Actor/Host/Documentary Producer)
- Ms. Kanwal Khoosat (Film Director/Producer)
- Mr. Sajjad Gul Saji (TV Writer/Content Head Green Entertainment)
- Ms. Hajra Yamin (Film and TV Actor/Model)
These judges bring their own unique perspectives and insights to the evaluation process, ensuring a comprehensive and diverse assessment of the entries. Together, these two tiers of judges contribute to the integrity and thoroughness of the selection process, guaranteeing the highest quality films and documentaries for our festival.
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Categories
- Students
- Professional
Material Specifications
Video must meet the following specifications: HD (1080i)
Video should be in HD formats along with detailed write-up (one page only), Poster of the film A3 Size (4 Color), Producer/Director Name, Actors/Actress Name and a photograph of the film maker (Passport Size good quality)
Duration:
Short Film: Maximum 10 minutes
Documentary: Maximum 15 minutes
Submission of Entries
- Festival Dates: October 2-10, 2023
- Documentary/Film Entry Deadline: 15 September, 2023
- Submit your film at https://fjwu.edu.pk/naqsh-digital-film-festival/
- There is NO Registration Fee.
- Also fill and attach the Undertaking/Registration Forms available on https://fjwu.edu.pk/naqsh-digital-film-festival/
- This contest is open to all students and Professionals. The film maker must be the only copyright holder.
- Write-up related to the submitted video must be provided by the film maker/participating in the contest.
- Applicants will submit their films at https://fjwu.edu.pk/naqsh-digital-film-festival/
- Films/Documentaries entered in the 2nd Naqsh Digital Film Festival (NDFF) must be subtitled in English if original language of film is not English.
- One Participant/Filmmaker can send up to 3 ENTRIES MAXIMUM as individual. Whereas Institutes/Universities/Departments of the Universities/Colleges can send as many entries as possible.
- The pre-selection entries will not be returned. They shall be kept in Fatima Jinnah Women University and its collaborators video archives.
- Communication and Media Studies Department of Fatima Jinnah Women University and UNFPA /PTV FILMS /RIME Digital and other partners have the right to use the films/documentaries in its future endeavors for Marketing/Promotions and can telecast at their own will any time with the due credit to the film makers.
- Any fee, costs or other claims arising from the screening of the film at the Festival and usage of films by UNFPA or telecasting the films on the platforms of Media Partners (PTV Film/OTT) are solely the responsibility of participant and that the NDFF/Fatima Jinnah Women University and PTV Film/RIME Digital/UNFPA or any other collaborators cannot be held responsible for any breach by you of any obligations.
- The filmmaker and/or producer/Participants, by sending their film(s) to the film festival agree not to withdraw film(s) from the Festival.
- The Festival can accept or not accept films without offering an explanation.
- Submission of this completed application form/undertaking form along with film or documentary does not guarantee the film will be screened nor its inclusion in the program or will be telecast on PTV Film/RIME Digital.
- If the Festival's terms and conditions will change, organizing team will intimate the participating filmmakers and will give the option to withdraw their films if they don't agree to the changes in terms and conditions.
- Students have to provide their Name, Name of Institute, Complete Postal Address, Phone Numbers (Both Cellular & PTCL), email ids and institutional ID card (scanned copy). Professional film makers have to provide their full name, Name of Organization (if any), complete postal Address and Phone Numbers (Both Cellular & PTCL), email id and scanned copy of their CNIC.
- The decision of jury will be considered as final. NDFF and Fatima Jinnah Women University as the organizer of the festival all the rights to accept or reject any entry.
- Incomplete entries will not be accepted.
- To be eligible for the Competition, Submissions must be the original work of the Participant; must not infringe any third party’s rights; must not contain obscene or unethical material; may not contain defamatory statements about any person, company, organization or entity; may not invade privacy or other rights of any person, company or entity; may not in any other way violate applicable laws and regulations; and may not contain any copyrighted elements (other than as owned by the Participant). Submissions containing prohibited or inappropriate content as determined by NDFF Jury, in its sole discretion, to be inappropriate will be disqualified. FJWU/NDFF reserves the right to make the final determination as to which Submissions are eligible.
Special Disclaimer*
- Any fee, cost or other claims arising from the screening of the film at the NDFF or telecasting the films on the platforms of Media Partners (PTV Film/OTT) are solely the responsibility of you and that the Festival and Fatima Jinnah Women University and PTV Film/RIME Digital/UNFPA/Cheezious/Directors’ Guild of Pakistan and any other partner or collaborators cannot be held responsible for any breach by you of any obligations. Also Communication and Media Studies Department of Fatima Jinnah Women University and PTV FILM/RIME Digital/UNFPA and any other partner have the right to use the films/documentaries in its future endeavors for Marketing/Promotions and can telecast at their own will any time with the due credit of the producer/director/participant. Any participant cannot claim any financial benefits on telecasting of their films/documentaries on Media Partners or any other collaborators.
For details, Submissions and Contact:
Festival Director: Muhammad Ali
Phone# 051-9292900 Ext: 2041
Mobile# 0334-5042368 0334-5535295
