Goa has once again made its mark on the global stage with filmmaker Sainath S Uskaikar’s short documentary Waai winning the prestigious Best Documentary (Short) award at the New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF) 2026 held in New York, USA.
Produced by renowned filmmaker Bharatbala under Virtual Bharat in association with HCL Enterprise, Waai was recognised at one of North America’s oldest and most respected festivals dedicated to Indian independent cinema.
The New York Indian Film Festival has long been regarded as a significant platform for showcasing compelling South Asian stories and celebrating outstanding talent from across the world. The recognition of Waai highlights not only the excellence of Goan filmmaking but also the growing global appreciation for stories rooted in cultural heritage and tradition.
A Story of Music, Identity and Legacy
Waai tells the inspiring story of the last four Waai singers in India, belonging to a Muslim nomadic community from Kutch, Gujarat.
The documentary captures a rare and fading musical tradition while documenting the efforts of the community to preserve and pass on this unique art form to future generations. Through intimate storytelling and powerful visuals, the film sheds light on an important cultural legacy that risks disappearing with time.
International Recognition for Goa
The award at NYIFF 2026 places Waai among the festival’s most celebrated films and reinforces Goa’s growing reputation as a hub for creative storytelling and documentary filmmaking.
For director Sainath S Uskaikar, the honour represents a significant milestone and brings international attention to a story deeply rooted in India’s diverse cultural fabric.
The recognition also underscores the importance of documenting and preserving indigenous traditions and communities whose voices often remain unheard.
As Waai continues to earn acclaim on the international festival circuit, it stands as a proud achievement for Goa and Indian documentary cinema.
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