Nandita Das directorial 'Manto' that features Nawazuddin Siddiqui as the famous Urdu poet Saadat Hasan Manto now heads to be screened at the Sydney Film Festival.

Speaking about Manto, Nandita said in a statement, "After an overwhelming response at Cannes, I am very happy to be going to the Sydney Film Festival with 'Manto'. The power of cinema is its ability to transcend countries and cultures." 

However, Nawazuddin won't be able to make his appearance at the film festival as he is busy shooting for 'Thackeray'.​

The film is a historical biopic period drama focusing on the life of the writer who is known for his writings around the partition of India and Pakistan. It is the only Indian film in Un Certain Regard category at 71st Cannes Film Festival. 

The film also stars Rasika Dugal and Tahir Raj Bhasin. It is bankrolled by HP Studios, Filmstoc and Viacom 18 Motion Pictures.

Ajit Andhare, Chief Operating Officer, Viacom18 Motion Pictures, said: "Manto, the only film from the entire Indian subcontinent to make it as a selection at Cannes Film festival, had an impressive premiere at the Un Certain Regard. We are delighted that it now makes it way to Sydney Film Festival for screenings."

It is a proud moment for an Indian film to go places and get recognition internationally. The film will be screened on 16-17 June at the Sydney film fest, which is held from June 6-17.