Cinema VinesSayani Gupta’s first feature as a director, Aasmani, has been chosen to open the Yellowstone International Film Festival in Mumbai on November 30, bringing the film to the city where her own acting career began. The selection marks a full‑circle moment for Gupta, who has spent the past decade establishing herself as a performer before stepping behind the camera.
The Mumbai premiere will showcase a touching narrative that follows a 60‑year‑old grandmother, her 10‑year‑old granddaughter, and their vintage powder‑blue Fiat. As the opening film, it is expected to set the tone for the festival’s program and draw attention to Gupta’s transition from actor to filmmaker.
Before its Mumbai debut, Aasmani has already made an impressive run across more than twelve international festivals in just two months. The film earned Best Director for Gupta and Best Child Actor for Daria Bedi in Boston, Best Short Film in Atlanta, and an Honorable Mention for Excellence in Short Filmmaking at the Vancouver International Short Film Festival (iSAFF). Gupta also received the Leadership in Film Award at Vancouver.
In Toronto, the film’s presence was highlighted when the International Film Festival of South Asia (IFFSA) honoured Gupta with the South Asian Screen Excellence Award as Guest of Honour. Revathy, who plays the character Asha, won Best Actor for an International Short at the same event.
Following its screening at the 30th Vancouver Asian Film Festival from November 5 to 14, Aasmani will continue its festival journey with further selections scheduled through March 2027. The Mumbai opening is a significant milestone, bringing the film’s global accolades back to the city where Gupta’s journey began.
