DUSHANBE, 29.07.2025 (NIAT Khovar) – This year, the second International “Toji Somon” Film Festival in Dushanbe will bring together filmmakers from 20 countries worldwide. This event marks an important and sustainable step in the development of Tajik cinema and the promotion of Tajik national cinema on the international stage, said Mahmadsaid Shohiyon, Director of the State Institution “Tojikfilm,” at a press conference.

The festival program includes Cinema Days dedicated to Russia, Iran, India, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan.

Additionally, it will feature a Board of Directors meeting of film studios, screenings of feature, fiction, and documentary films, a conference with prominent filmmakers from near and far abroad, a “Master and Apprentice” workshop, and an international film forum commemorating the 60th anniversary of the renowned Tajik film director and laureate of the Rudaki State Prize of Tajikistan, Bakhtiyor Khudoynazarov.

Film selection and presentations will be conducted by an international jury according to the festival’s regulations. Most participating countries have already submitted their films, with the final selection expected by September 15.

The festival will take place in Dushanbe from October 15 to 20, coinciding with Tajik Cinema Day (October 16) under the theme “The History of Tajiks’ Development.”

The “Toji Somon” Film Festival is held biennially. The inaugural festival took place in 2023 in Dushanbe.