Section 375 to close the 3rd Singapore South Asian International Film Festival

The upcoming Section 375 (2019), produced by Kumar Mangat Pathak, Abhishek Pathak and SCIPL, will close out the third edition of the Singapore South Asian International Film Festival (SgSAIFF) which begins at the end of August.

Starring Akshaye Khanna and Richa Chadha, the Ajay Bahl film explores section 375 of the Indian Penal Code and follows a sexual harassment case in court.

Piiyush Singh, co-chairman of the festival, confirmed the news and said, "The idea is to have quality of films that trigger conversations around societal issues and cinema. We are happy to have a line-up of stimulating films in such a short span of time and the idea is to be better with each passing year."

Lead actor Khanna was happy for the film's selection at the Singapore festival. He was keen to present the film for the local audience.

"A flagship screening at a film festival is the best possible way for this film to start its journey into people’s minds and hearts," he said in a press release. "Film festivals are the greatest celebration of the art of cinema that we are all privileged to practise. SgSAIFF is an amazing platform to showcase the hard work and passion that has gone into crafting this film and my personal journey in playing this character which has so many shades and nuances."

His co-star, and opposing lawyer in the movie, Richa Chadha, shared his enthusiasm and said the closing night selection was a matter of honour for her. She confirmed her presence at the screening as well.

"This is one of my most challenging roles ever in a film whose script I completely loved. I am very excited to be able to present the film in person to a large live audience and be able to engage in a real-time dialogue. The film is about creating a meaningful dialogue in society about the rape law in India and it is fitting that its journey start at a prestigious film festival," the actress said in a statement.

Supported by India's high commission in Singapore, the festival will be held from 30 August to 7 September and conclude with an awards show.