A groundbreaking cinematic milestone, JESUS premieres in India, breaking barriers with American and Indian Sign Language, Hindi dubbing, and English subtitles—uniting Deaf and hearing audiences in an inspiring celebration of inclusive storytelling. The #Newsdesk reports.

The India Premiere of JESUS at PVR*INOX marked a historic step for inclusive cinema, presenting the world’s first feature film created entirely in American Sign Language, adapted into Indian Sign Language and Hindi with English subtitles. Produced and directed for Deaf, by Deaf, this globally acclaimed film has been screened in over 50 countries and translated into 17 languages. Featuring Deaf actor Gideon Firl as Jesus and Sumit Malik as Matthew, the premiere highlighted representation, accessibility, and faith, drawing an enthusiastic audience from India’s Deaf community, filmmakers, and cultural leaders.

Mumbai, September 6, 2025 – A landmark moment in inclusive cinema unfolded at PVR*INOX with the India Premiere of JESUS, a feature film made entirely in American Sign Language (ASL), and specially dubbed into Indian Sign Language (ISL) and Hindi with English subtitles. Produced and directed for Deaf, by Deaf, the film is a pioneering global project that celebrates representation, accessibility, and faith through the universal language of cinema.

A Global Phenomenon Reaches India
JESUS has already travelled to more than 50 countries, translated into 17 languages, and premiered with Picture-in-Picture events in South Korea, Germany, and Australia. Its arrival in India, empowered by Collide and MightyWrite Media, was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from members of the Deaf community, film professionals, and audiences eager to experience a story brought alive with inclusivity at its core.

The screening brought together not just cinema lovers but also advocates of accessibility in art. The film’s visual and emotional appeal, supported by ISL and Hindi dubbing, offered a deeply immersive experience.

Presence of Global Deaf Icons
The premiere was attended by American actor Gideon Firl, who plays Jesus. Firl, himself Deaf, holds significant relevance as a role model for the global Deaf community. Reflecting on his performance and the Indian reception, Firl said: "I’m deeply moved by the resonance of Jesus’ teachings with Indian values. The film’s message of compassion, empathy, and inclusivity aligns perfectly with the rich cultural heritage of India. It’s an honour to share this story with the Indian audience."

Joining him was Sumit Malik, an actor of Indian origin, whose presence served as an inspiration for Deaf Indians aspiring to enter professional filmmaking. The event also drew notable personalities including music composer Manan Shah (co-founder of GoonGunalo), Inamul Haq (actor-producer), and Varshaa A Jainn, founder of MightyWrite Media and a central force in bringing the film to Indian screens.

The Force Behind the Premiere
Varshaa A Jainn, an award-winning filmmaker, entrepreneur, and global distributor, spearheaded the India release through MightyWrite Media, in association with Deaf Mission and PVR*INOX. With over three decades of diverse experience across cinema, corporate strategy, and creative industries, Jainn’s efforts continue to bridge mainstream and independent worlds while championing causes such as Indie Cinema, Cancer Awareness, and Good Governance.
A Milestone in Inclusive Storytelling

The India Premiere of JESUS was not just a film screening but a cultural event—bringing together Deaf and hearing audiences, bridging languages, and highlighting cinema’s power as a universal medium of empathy. The post-screening Q&A left the hall charged with inspiration, reaffirming the role of film was in creating inclusive spaces for marginalized voices.