Desi Hits! was onsite along with 1200 people to kick off the South Asian Film Festival. The event was held at the Ziegfeld Theater in New York City last night. Opening night featured the movie, 'Firaaq'. This film marked the directorial debut of the world renowned actress, Nandita Das. The red carpet was rolled out to make way for the celebrities at the event. The breathtaking Miss India 2007, Sarah Jane-Dias, was the very first juror to walk in.  Das was glowing in her elegant white sari with intricate gold embroidery on it. 

The crowd went wild when Nandita Das stepped on the red carpet. The socially conscious actress known for her simplicity wore a conservative rani colored, long sleeved desi outfit. The artist told DH! that she is ecstatic about her directorial debut. When asked if she would be directing again anytime soon she responded, "You will definitely see me direct again, but not right now. I need a break and I want to act and do other things right now." Das was accompanied by her colleague, who also acted in 'Firaaq', Deepti Naval. It was Naval's first time to view the film and the actress flew across the world just for one night in NYC to view the movie!

'Firaaq' is set after the carnage that took place in Gujarat in 2002. The movie follows different characters, who have their own stories. Their stories unite to show how they all are impacted by the aftermath of the carnage. The film brought tears to the eyes of many sitting in the auditorium. It was a powerful start to the film festival.
The festival runs till October 28th and the schedule includes a diverse bank of films. The festival's jury members include, Aasif Mandvi from the Daily Show, as well as actor Waris Ahluwalia. who have already voted for their favorite films. The winners will be announced this Saturday at an awards night held at BLVD in New York City.

For more information, visit the official website for SAIFF 2008.

Watch a promo for Nandita's directorial debut, 'Firaaq', below.