Press & Media Coverage
Saffron Kingdom and Daffodil Studios have been covered in a number of media outlets since the film's premiere at Wake Forest International Film Festival. Here is a list outlining that coverage.
Daffodil Studios Press Release
Saffron Kingdom: Brave Kashmiri Independent Film Sheds Light on Kashmiri Oppression and Strength
WASHINGTON, DC (4th November 2025)
Articles
'Saffron Kingdom': Filmmaker talks about why he couldn't cast Kashmiris in his film
An Urdu-language interview with Saffron Kingdom director Arfat Sheikh with the BBC discussing the process of making the film as well as its impact.
An indie filmmaker seeks to challenge Bollywood narrative on Kashmir
An interview with director Arfat Sheikh as well as an examination of Saffron Kingdom itself by UK tabloid The Independent. Includes background on Arfat, the Kashmir issue at large, and how Saffron Kingdom helps reclaim the Kashmiri voice.
A Kashmiri filmmaker's quest to reclaim narrative through cinema
Interview with director Arfat Sheikh and an examination of how Saffron Kingdom challenges narratives and stereotypes by Turkish media agency TRT World. Discusses the Bollywood portrayal of Kashmiris, the symbolism of Saffron Kingdom, and how the film aims to preserve Kashmir's collective memory.
Podcasts
Journalism and Free Expression from the US to Kashmir
A podcast episode discussing free speech and free press with a US context and a Kashmiri context by Project Censored. Includes an interview with Saffron Kingdom director Arfat Sheikh discussing the repression against Kashmiri voices and the film's importance.
Ep. 70 - Arfat Sheikh (Saffron Kingdom)
A podcast episode interviewing director Arfat Sheikh about the film by Classic American Movies. Discusses his personal journey as well as the creation of Saffron Kingdom.
Arfat Sheikh's Saffron Kingdom [OP9]
A podcast episode interviewing director Arfat Sheikh about the film by oZone Podcast. Discusses the history of the Kashmir occupation as well as the journey of making Saffron Kingdom.