Photographed by Yasir Habibi at the South Asian Stories of Resilience private screening held in The Culver Theater
On Saturday, December 7, The Culver Theater played host to an elegant and deeply engaging private screening of three impactful short films—DOSH, Winds of Silence, and Witness—curated by multi-faceted artist and filmmaker Radha Mehta. The evening brought together an intimate yet diverse audience of creatives, industry professionals, and community supporters for a celebration of storytelling, artistry, and cultural dialogue.
Photographed by Yasir Habibi at the South Asian Stories of Resilience private screening held in The Culver Theater
The screening was followed by an insightful Q&A session, moderated by celebrated filmmaker and actor Fawzia Mirza (The Queen of My Dreams, Signature Move). The panel featured Radha Mehta herself alongside the principal creatives and cast members, delving into the themes, inspirations, and creative processes behind each film. Attendees were captivated not only by the deeply layered narratives but also by the striking visuals and poignant performances showcased throughout the three shorts.
Radha Mehta’s curation featured stories that span powerful themes of resilience, identity, and social consciousness.
DOSH delves into the complexities of family dynamics and cultural expectations, offering an intimate look at generational conflict and reconciliation. Through thoughtful storytelling and stunning cinematography, the film highlights the weight of tradition and the yearning for autonomy in contemporary life.
Winds of Silence tackles societal issues with breathtaking subtlety. Set against a hauntingly quiet landscape, the film addresses themes of grief and survival while relying heavily on the unspoken—a testament to Mehta’s ability to evoke emotion through quiet moments and visual storytelling.
Witness explores human relationships through the lens of justice and moral dilemma. With riveting performances and a tightly crafted script, the film brings forward raw truths about the decisions we make and their far-reaching consequences.
The audience was visibly moved by the diversity in style and subject matter across the three films. Mehta’s ability to weave together stories that are universally resonant while deeply personal earned widespread praise, with the Q&A providing a space to unpack the films’ deeper messages.
Photographed by Yasir Habibi at the South Asian Stories of Resilience private screening held in The Culver Theater
Fawzia Mirza guided the conversation with humor and sensitivity, asking thought-provoking questions that illuminated the creative journey behind each project. The panelists shared the challenges of independent filmmaking, the collaborative spirit that fueled their success, and the importance of representation in storytelling. Mehta emphasized how her own personal and cultural background informed her approach to creating narratives that are both specific and universal.
Audience members engaged enthusiastically, posing questions about the films’ production, narrative choices, and emotional arcs. The reception underscored how Mehta’s work has successfully struck a chord with viewers while sparking important conversations around identity, silence, and justice.
Photographed by Yasir Habibi at the South Asian Stories of Resilience private screening held in The Culver Theater
In addition to the powerful storytelling, the event was also a celebration of style and sophistication. The red carpet moment at The Culver Theater was graced with stunning fashion choices that reflected both modern elegance and cultural roots.
Radha Mehta herself embodied effortless grace in a contemporary gown blending tradition with modern flair. Her choice of earthy tones and subtle embellishments was a nod to the themes of authenticity and depth present in her films.
Fawzia Mirza brought a chic, androgynous vibe to the event that perfectly balanced sharp tailoring with a bold sense of individuality. Mirza’s look was a refreshing reminder of how fashion can be both polished and boundary-pushing.
Among the attendees, vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and statement accessories paid homage to cultural heritage while celebrating personal expression. From sleek evening gowns to richly embroidered pieces, the audience’s fashion choices reflected the artistic spirit of the evening. A few fashion brands were highlighted at the event such as Morni and Color Coded Crime displaying lively and unisex atire styled by Qasim Anwar.
Photographer Yasir Habibi beautifully captured the essence of the event, highlighting not just the films and conversations but also the electric energy of the evening and its fashionable attendees. The photos showcase moments of laughter, reflection, and connection, underscoring the success of the screening as both a cultural and creative milestone.
Photographed by Yasir Habibi at the South Asian Stories of Resilience private screening held in The Culver Theater
The private screening of DOSH, Winds of Silence, and Witness was more than just a showcase of films—it was a testament to the power of storytelling to bridge divides and evoke change. Community being a huge pillar for this event, JIVA Mental Health and Muslims For Progressive Values were present to shed light on the deep-impacting visions and missions they are on in their respective organizations. Radha Mehta’s visionary work, coupled with the engaging Q&A and the vibrant reception, left a lasting impression on all who attended. From the poignant narratives to the captivating fashion, the evening at The Culver Theater was a celebration of art in its many forms, solidifying Radha Mehta’s status as a creative force to watch. For more information on this event and how you can be an ally, please visit this link https://www.radhamehta.com/december7