Punjabi cinema is set to gain another prominent international platform as Tarsem Jassar’s Dastaar becomes part of the IIFA Awards 2026 lineup. The film brings together themes of identity, resilience and community while revisiting a difficult chapter in the lives of Sikh immigrants in 1980s Britain.
Directed by Amar Hundal, the film centres on Harnek, a Sikh immigrant whose world is shattered following a violent racist attack. Faced with devastating personal loss and an environment shaped by prejudice, Harnek refuses to surrender to fear.
Instead, his experience becomes the driving force behind a larger purpose. His journey from a man confronting tragedy to someone who emerges as a voice for his community forms the emotional core of the film.
The turban as a symbol of strength
The title Dastaar refers to the traditional Sikh turban, which carries deep religious and cultural significance. In the film, it takes on an even broader meaning, representing self-respect, faith, identity and the determination to stand firm in the face of discrimination.
Rather than treating the dastaar simply as a cultural detail, the film places it at the heart of its message about dignity and solidarity. Harnek’s story reflects the pressure immigrant communities can face while attempting to preserve their heritage in unfamiliar surroundings.
Tarsem Jassar leads an ensemble cast
Tarsem Jassar plays the central character, with Geet Goraya, Yograj Singh, Neeta Mohindra and Aman Dhaliwal also appearing in key roles.
The screenplay and story have been credited to Dheeraj Kedarnath Rattan and Manila Rattan, while Jatinder Lall has written the dialogues. Amar Hundal has directed the project.
The film has been produced by Manmord Singh Sidhu, Gunbir Singh Sidhu and Sam Bhattacharjee under the banners of Hotshot Productions Limited and White Hill Studios.
From Punjabi screens to IIFA
Released on July 17, 2026, Dastaar combines elements of emotional drama, action and crime thriller storytelling. Its inclusion in the IIFA Awards 2026 gives the Punjabi production an opportunity to reach a broader audience beyond its traditional market.
At its heart, the film is a story about confronting hatred without abandoning one's identity. By placing Harnek’s personal struggle within the wider experience of an immigrant community, Dastaar seeks to connect a specifically Sikh story with universal ideas of courage, belonging and collective strength.
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