Welcome to the 2023 Bengali Film Festival
In 2023, we proudly hosted our very first Bengali Film Festival in New York City — a milestone moment for BoNY and our community. The festival brought together three powerful films that explored the richness of Bengali stories, voices, and culture.
Although it was our inaugural year, we were thrilled to welcome an audience of 80 attendees, who came together to experience cinema that reflects the vibrancy and diversity of the Bengali diaspora. The screenings were more than just films — they sparked conversations, created connections, and celebrated the shared heritage that unites us.
This festival marked the beginning of a new chapter for BoNY. What started as a small but powerful gathering has laid the foundation for something much larger. As our community grows, so too will this festival — bringing even more stories, filmmakers, and audiences together in the years ahead
Featured Films — Bengali Film Festival 2023
At BoNY’s inaugural Bengali Film Festival on July 13, 2023, we proudly presented three standout short films that reflect the breadth of Bengali creativity—spanning personal anxieties, rural storytelling, and cultural connection:
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The Culinary Bridge — A heartfelt short documentary by our founder Kamrul Khan, this film transports viewers into the vibrant world of Bengali street food vendors, celebrating the cultural and culinary threads that bind community and tradition.
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County — Directed by Fahim Hamid, this introspective documentary explores themes of fate and choice, prompting us to reflect on whether we can truly escape the paths life lays before us.
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Mr. Lockdown — A gripping psychological thriller by Sayef Zaman, this short film delves into the depths of pandemic-related paranoia, blurring the lines between fear and reality in a compelling inner journey.
Together, these films provided a panorama of Bengali storytelling—from the aromas of street cuisine to inner turmoil and existential reflection—sparking vibrant conversation and connection among our 80 community members in attendance.
The 2024 New York Bengali Film Festival was more than just a showcase of films — it was a celebration of identity, creativity, and community.
From powerful stories of heritage to bold visions of the future, each film reminded us of the beauty and diversity of the Bengali experience.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the filmmakers, sponsors, judges, and our vibrant audience who made this event possible. Your passion fuels our mission to keep Bengali voices alive on the global stage.
See you at the next festival — until then, keep watching, keep dreaming, and keep telling your story.
Check out Bengali Film Festival 2024
Check out Bengali Film Festival 2025
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