Nayab
An internationally acclaimed, award-winning feature film that captures the resilience of Karachi and the unwavering spirit of a young woman determined to follow her dream.
Feature film - “NAYAB”
NAYAB marks the debut feature collaboration between Num Films and Kenneyz Productions, reflecting a shared commitment to authentic storytelling with universal appeal. Since its premiere, the film has travelled extensively across international film festivals, earning critical recognition, multiple awards, and connecting with audiences across Asia, Europe, Africa, and North America.
Director's Statement
NAYAB is a story about resilience, hope, and the courage to dream against the odds. While the film follows a young woman's determination to pursue her passion for cricket, at its heart it is equally a story about the unconditional bond between a brother and sister—a relationship built on belief, sacrifice, and unwavering support.
Growing up in Karachi, I witnessed a generation shaped by the challenges and uncertainty of the 1990s. Rather than focusing on that turmoil itself, I wanted to explore its lasting impact on ordinary families and the quiet strength they found in moving forward. For me, Karachi is not simply a backdrop; it is a character that reflects both struggle and resilience.
Although deeply rooted in Pakistan, NAYAB speaks to universal themes of family, perseverance, and hope. My aspiration was to create a film that feels authentic to its setting while resonating with audiences across cultures, reminding us that even in the most difficult circumstances, dreams can endure.
Cast & Crew
Umair Nasir Ali (Director)
Rumina Umair (Producer)
Umair Irfani (Producer)
David Kenney (Executive Producers)
Agnes Kenney (Executive Producers)
Jawed Sheikh (Starring)
Yumna Zaidi (Starring)
Usama Khan (Starring)
Adnan Siddiqui (Starring)
Noreen Gulwani (Starring)
M. Fawad Khan (Starring)
Huma Nawab (Starring)
Mahdi Qasmi (Starring)
Film Directed by:
- Umair Nasir Ali
Producers
- Rumina Umair
- Umair Irfani
Executive Producers
- David Kenney
- Agnes Kenney
Written By
- Basit Naqvi
- Ali Abbas Naqvi
Director of Photography
- Sahjee Hasan
Film Editor
- Rizwan AQ
Post Production
- Post Island
Music
- Kamran Ismail (Kami)
Starring
- Jawed Sheikh
- Yumna Zaidi
- M. Fawad Khan
- Usama Khan
- Huma Nawab
- Noreen Gulwani
- Mahdi Qasmi
- Adnan Siddiqui
Awards & Recognitions
NAYAB has been celebrated internationally for its storytelling, performances, and cinematic excellence. Since its world premiere, the film has travelled across major international film festivals, earning prestigious awards and representing Pakistan on the global stage.
Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Film Festival
Chongqing, China | 2025
NAYAB received the Jury Special Award at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Film Festival, one of the region's leading international film events bringing together cinema from SCO member states. The award recognised the film's powerful storytelling, authentic performances, and contribution to contemporary Pakistani cinema.
World Film Festival – Cannes
France | 2024
NAYAB made its international debut with two major awards at the World Film Festival – Cannes, marking a remarkable beginning to its global festival journey and recognising both the film's artistic achievement and Umair Nasir Ali's feature directorial debut.
Listapad International Film Festival
Minsk, Belarus | 2024
Selected from more than 3,400 entries representing 124 countries, NAYAB received the prestigious Jury Award in the International Fiction Competition. The award was accepted on behalf of the filmmakers by the Ambassador of Pakistan to Belarus.
South Asian International Film Festival
Florida, USA | 2025
The film was honoured with Best Feature Film, while Yumna Zaidi received Best Actress, recognising both the film's emotional impact and outstanding performances.
South Asian Film Festival
Montreal, Canada | 2025
The jury presented NAYAB with a Special Mention for its moving portrayal of resilience, dreams, solidarity, and the strength of women in the face of adversity.
Kenya International Sports Film Festival
Mombasa, Kenya | 2024
Recognised for its inspiring portrayal of sport as a vehicle for hope, empowerment, and social change, NAYAB received the festival's prestigious Chairman's Award.
Jaipur International Film Festival
India | 2024
NAYAB was officially selected for one of India's leading international film festivals, further expanding its global festival journey.
Yellowstone International Film Festival
New Delhi, India | 2024
Selected in recognition of its cinematic quality and compelling storytelling
Pakistan Film Festival
Amman, Jordan | 2025
Presented at the Pakistan Film Festival organised by the Royal Film Commission of Jordan, introducing NAYAB to audiences in the Middle East.
Karachi Literature Festival
Pakistan | 2025
A special screening and discussion celebrating the film's contribution to contemporary Pakistani cinema and storytelling.
Lux Style Awards
Pakistan | 2025
Recognition by Pakistan's premier entertainment awards for excellence in direction and performance.
South Asian Film Festival
Since its premiere, NAYAB has travelled across Asia, Europe, Africa, and North America, connecting with audiences through international film festivals, cultural showcases, embassy screenings, and special presentations. Its journey reflects the universal appeal of authentic storytelling and Num Films' commitment to creating cinema that resonates beyond borders.
Nayab (2024)
With the support of her older, married brother, a young woman rebels against her parents' expectations and trains to become a cricket player for Pakistan's national team.
behind The Scenes
Film Videos
Film News
By Admin
Jan 05, 2024
‘Nayab’ The Film’s Premiere Night Opens With A Bang In Karachi...
Prepare to be captivated by the moving tale of ‘Nayab’ – a cinematic experience that revolves...
By Admin
Feb 11, 2024
‘Nayab’ The Film’s Premiere Night Opens With A Bang In Karachi...
Prepare to be captivated by the moving tale of ‘Nayab’ – a cinematic experience that revolves around the lives of Nayab...
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Feb 11, 2024
Diva Review: ‘Nayab’ – A Strong Melodramatic Debut For Yumna Zaidi
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Dec 11, 2024
Enter Nayab’s world: Official poster for Yumna Zaidi’s debut film unveiled
After much anticipation, leading television actor Yumna Zaidi is finally making her foray into cinema with Nayab. Helmed...
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Feb 11, 2024
Five Reasons Why Nayab Should Not be Missed in Cinemas!
Pakistan’s film industry begins 2024 on a high with the release of sports film Nayab which proves to be a game changer i...
