VAAK FESTIVAL 2025: Cinema, Music, Fashion — From Tehran to Kabul to London

Join us from 31 October to 2 November at Rich Mix, London for Vaak Persian Festival, a celebration of contemporary arts from Iran and Afghanistan, providing a platform for voices that are often silenced or underrepresented.

Supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.

At a time when many artists in Iran and Afghanistan (particularly women, minorities, and underground creators) face restrictions, the festival offers a space for them to be seen and supported. Through music, film, fashion, and discussion, it highlights the richness and innovation of modern Persian-speaking cultures while building bridges between diasporic and local creative communities. By featuring independent musicians, filmmakers, and fashion designers from both Iran and Afghanistan, the festival provides emerging artists with visibility, collaboration, and opportunities to continue creating.

Bamdad Afshar & Otagh (FRI 31 OCT)

Making their London debut, Bamdad Afshar & Otagh Band blend Persian poetry, rock, and experimental electronic music. Using custom instruments, robotics, and electronic devices, their performances are immersive, dynamic, and unforgettable.

DoBaRe (SAT 1 NOV)

DoBaRe, founded by Khatereh Hakimi and Ehsan Goodarzi, fuses poetry, music, and personal storytelling. Their heartfelt compositions draw audiences into a deeply engaging and intimate musical experience.

Mahtab Qala featuring Elaha Soroor (SUN 2 NOV)

This London-based ensemble revives the joy and spirit of Afghan folk and wedding music. Featuring acclaimed singer and activist Elaha Soroor, the band brings the heartbeat of Kabul to the stage.

In the Land of Brothers (FRI 31 OCT)

Directors Raha Amirfazli and Alireza Ghasemi explore the lives of an Afghan refugee family navigating Iran after the US invasion. Screening followed by a Q&A with the directors.

Woman and Child (SAT 1 NOV)

Saeed Roostaee’s Cannes-nominated drama follows a widowed mother facing tragedy and seeking justice, highlighting resilience and familial bonds. Screening followed by a Q&A.

Absence (SUN 2 NOV)

Ali Mosaffa’s mystical thriller uncovers memory, identity, and the ties between past and present. Screening followed by a Q&A with the director.

Finding Your Own Cinema: Independent Filmmaking Workshop with Ali Mosaffa (SAT 1 NOV)

Explore how to cultivate a personal cinematic voice and navigate independent filmmaking with acclaimed Iranian filmmaker Ali Mosaffa.

From Creativity to Independence: Fashion Workshop with Leila Pourshaban (SUN 2 NOV)

Leila Pourshaban shares how creativity can become a path to independence, guiding participants to turn personal expression into opportunity, resilience, and self-driven work.

Independent Voices in Iranian Fashion

A showcase of contemporary and underground Iranian fashion, featuring innovative designers from across Iran and the Persian-speaking diaspora. Attendees can explore one-of-a-kind clothing, accessories, and engage with designers through discussions and workshops.