Rafay Rashdi: Filmmaker with a Vision for Stories That Matter

Rafay Rashdi is a filmmaker who believes stories can heal, confront, and connect. Born in Hyderabad, Pakistan, and now based in Toronto, Rafay’s creative journey began with a childhood camcorder and a dream. Today, he’s crafting cinematic experiences that center South Asian identity, intergenerational trauma, and emotional truth—while reaching audiences far beyond borders. His feature film Deemak premiered on Eid-ul-Adha and won Best Editing at China’s SCO Film Festival—making waves for Pakistani cinema and South Asian horror. Rafay is now championing bold, cross-border stories that defy genre and expectation.

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TINDS: Where did you grow up and what was your childhood like?

Rafay Rashdi: I was born in Hyderabad, Pakistan, but spent most of my younger years in Karachi. My childhood was pretty normal—school, home, the usual. It was a humble and grounded upbringing. I’m currently based in Toronto, Canada. I work here as a director, doing everything media-related from this side of the world.

TINDS: What are three words that describe you best?

Rafay Rashdi: Patient, persistent, and professional.

TINDS: What inspired you to do what you’re doing?

Rafay Rashdi: Everyone has a calling. I always wanted to be a filmmaker. As a kid, I’d use camcorders to shoot videos and record audio tapes. It was a passion that eventually turned into a career.

TINDS: What was your first creative moment?

Rafay Rashdi: It happened when I started recording. I realized I didn’t just enjoy shooting—I loved writing too. That was when I truly discovered the creative spark in me.

TINDS: What’s something people always ask you about your work?

Rafay Rashdi: Upcoming filmmakers often ask me for advice—whether it’s about casting or production. I love helping young talent and sharing what I’ve learned.

TINDS: Can you tell us a bit about your current projects?

Rafay Rashdi: My feature film Deemak recently premiered in Pakistan during Eid-ul-Adha. It’s a supernatural horror that explores generational trauma within a Pakistani family, inspired by folklore and true events. It just won Best Editing at the SCO Film Festival in China, which was a huge moment for me—and for South Asian horror films in general. 

I’m exploring the international festival circuit and also working on short series in Toronto, but I can’t reveal much due to NDAs.

TINDS: What was the hardest part of your journey that no one sees?

Rafay Rashdi: The struggle. People only see the final product and think it’s easy. But it takes patience and countless hours of work—people rarely see that side of it.

TINDS: What’s been your most unforgettable experience so far?

Rafay Rashdi: Winning my first international film award last year for my short film “Jamun Ka Darakht” or “The Java Plum Tree”. I had never won anything before, so it was a very special and emotional moment for me.

TINDS: How do you stay grounded or authentic in the online space?

Rafay Rashdi: I’m a very private person. I don’t share family moments online. I keep it professional and focused on my work. I avoid controversies and try to stay rooted in what I do best.

TINDS: What’s your go-to comfort food or self-care ritual?

Rafay Rashdi: It’s a tough industry—12+ hour days. I usually grab whatever’s available—sandwiches, fries. For self-care, I watch shows or movies to unwind mentally. Physically, I try to stay regular at the gym.

TINDS: Is there someone who really inspires you?

Rafay Rashdi: So many people. Of course, filmmakers like Spielberg, Nolan, and Cameron inspire me. But also everyday people—those who’ve been grinding for 25 years and finally won. That motivates me deeply.

TINDS: What’s a fun fact about you that people don’t know?

Rafay Rashdi: I used to be a DJ during my university days. I produced music and played at events—a totally different chapter of life, but it was fun and creative in its own way.

TINDS: If you could share a conversation with anyone—past or present—who would it be and why?

Rafay Rashdi: My mother. Every time I struggled, she believed in me. Her words—“aim for the stars”—still echo in my mind. That kind of support keeps you going.

TINDS: If you could describe your style of work in one word, what would it be?

Rafay Rashdi: Detail-oriented.

TINDS: What’s one lesson you’ve learned the hard way?

Rafay Rashdi: There are no shortcuts. You have to feel the grind. Experience is everything—you can’t just wake up and become a filmmaker. It takes years of effort and learning.

Rafay Rashdi is bringing fresh, authentic South Asian narratives to the screen—one story at a time. With a filmmaker’s eye and a storyteller’s soul, he’s reshaping how we see culture, trauma, and identity through film.

Find Rafay: Instagram: Rafay Rashdi Website: rafay-rashdi.com Twitter: Rafay Rashdi Facebook: Rafay Rashdi