Echoes of Us Sweeps All Three Major Short Film Awards at SAIFFF 2026

Feb 26, 2026

The South Asian International Film Festival Florida (SAIFFF) successfully concluded its 2026 edition on February 23, 2026, marking a historic moment as the short film Echoes of Us emerged as the festival’s most celebrated entry, winning all three top Short Film awards.

The English-language drama from India dominated the Short Film category, earning:

Best Short Film
Best Actor (Short Film) – Deepak Tijori
Best Actress (Short Film) – Iulia Vantur

Produced by Pooja Batra and directed by Joe Rajan, Echoes of Us received a standing ovation at its SAIFFF screening for its emotionally resonant storytelling and powerful performances—cementing its place as the defining short film of the festival.

SAIFFF 2026: A Global Celebration of South Asian Cinema

Held from February 21–23, 2026 at NCG Cinema, Tampa, the three-day festival showcased over 50 films selected from more than 200 international submissions, representing Indian and South Asian storytellers from India, Australia, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Nepal, Canada, India, and the United States.

The festival opened with a sold-out red-carpet gala attended by acclaimed Bollywood actors Pooja Batra and Omi Vaidya, alongside filmmakers and industry professionals from around the world.

A major highlight was INDIA DAY, presented on Saturday and sponsored by the Consulate General of India, Atlanta. The celebration honored Indian cinema made by the global diaspora and featured special screenings of English Vinglish and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. The ceremony was hosted by Pooja Batra and Omi Vaidya.

Speaking on the festival’s success, SAIFFF Director Hemant Dinkar said:

“Receiving over 200 submissions from across the globe and welcoming filmmakers who traveled to Tampa to share their stories made this year truly special. The sweeping success of Echoes of Us reflects the power of authentic storytelling and the global reach of South Asian cinema.”

SAIFFF Awards – Official Winners List

???? Short Film Awards

Best Short Film: Echoes of Us – Joe Rajan & Pooja Batra

Best Actor (Short Film): Deepak Tijori – Echoes of Us

Best Actress (Short Film): Iulia Vantur – Echoes of Us

Best Documentary (Short): Kaashi to Kumbha – Abhilash Arunakar & Shane Ali

Best Short Film (Critics): Tat Tvam Asi

Best Actress (Short Film – Critics): Anubha Fatehpuria –Thursday Special

Best Emerging Talent: Sujay Khona – Kaju Katli

NCG Audience Choice Award: Harij Weds Sajili

???? Feature & Documentary Awards

Best Feature Film: Hindi Vindi