Indian fashion legend and now film producer Manish Malhotra has once again proven his creative genius, but this time beyond the runway. His productions, Bun Tikki and Saali Mohabbat, have been officially selected for the prestigious 16th Chicago South Asian Film Festival (CSAFF) 2025. This recognition marks a significant milestone for Malhotra’s journey as a film producer, as both films bring diverse and socially relevant narratives to a global stage.
Saali Mohabbat – Opening Night Film at CSAFF 2025
Directed by Tisca Chopra in her much-anticipated directorial debut, Saali Mohabbat has been chosen as the Opening Night film of the festival.
The film tackles the sensitive subject of domestic violence and emotional betrayal, portraying a woman’s journey to reclaim her dignity and voice amidst the conflicting realities of rural and urban India.
With a stellar cast including Radhika Apte, Divyenndu, Sharat Saxena, Anshumaan Pushkar, Sauraseni Maitra, and Anurag Kashyap, the film is expected to leave a strong emotional impact on audiences worldwide.
Produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Dinesh Malhotra, and Manish Malhotra, Saali Mohabbat sets a bold and empowering tone for the festival’s opening.
Bun Tikki – A Soulful Tale of Family & Identity
The second selection, Bun Tikki, is directed by Faraz Arif Ansari and is described as a soulful coming-of-age story. It explores the deeply personal themes of family, love, and identity, resonating with audiences across generations.
The film features powerhouse performances by veteran icons Shabana Azmi and Zeenat Aman, alongside Abhay Deol, Nushrratt Bharuccha, and newcomer Rohaan Singh.
After its world premiere at the Palm Springs Festival 2025, Bun Tikki is now set to captivate audiences in Chicago.
Manish Malhotra’s Transition from Couture to Cinema
Globally renowned for revolutionizing Indian fashion, Manish Malhotra has recently forayed into film production through his Stage 5 Productions banner in collaboration with Jio Studios.
Apart from Bun Tikki and Saali Mohabbat, Malhotra is also producing Gustaakh Ishq – Kucch Pehle Jaisa, starring Vijay Varma and Fatima Sana Shaikh, which is slated for a November 2025 release.
This expansion into cinema reflects Malhotra’s passion for storytelling—transforming not just fabrics but also narratives that leave a mark.
Why This Selection Matters
The Chicago South Asian Film Festival is one of North America’s leading platforms for South Asian filmmakers, highlighting cultural diversity, social issues, and innovative storytelling.
For Indian cinema, having films like Bun Tikki and Saali Mohabbat showcased here represents:
- A broader acceptance of diverse Indian stories on global stages.
- The rising influence of fashion icons transitioning into filmmakers.
- A stronger voice for women-centric narratives in world cinema.
From designing timeless couture to producing hard-hitting films, Manish Malhotra continues to redefine creativity. With Bun Tikki and Saali Mohabbat making waves at CSAFF 2025, Malhotra has established himself as a powerhouse of storytelling, proving that art—whether through fashion or film—has no boundaries.
These selections not only celebrate his new cinematic vision but also showcase the growing global recognition of Indian filmmakers and stories.
