Actress Jo Sharma Honored with NAFA Recognition Award at the 3rd North American Film Festival

SAN JOSE, CA — Indian-American actress and M4M heroine Jo Sharma received the prestigious NAFA Recognition Award from legendary Marathi actor Ajinkya Deo during the 3rd NAFA North American Film Association Marathi Film Festival, which took place in San Jose, California, from August 7 to 9, 2026. Walking the NAFA red carpet, Sharma accepted her award at the event’s media lounge.

Star-Studded Three-Day Festival Highlights
The three-day cinematic event served as a vibrant hub for Marathi cinema in America, bringing together a host of prominent industry icons, including Rohini Hattangadi, Ajinkya Deo, Mahesh Kothare, Girish Oak, Shruti Marathe, Atul Kulkarni, Nagraj Manjule, Prasad Oak, Manjiri Oak, Trupti Bhoir (Paro), and Sai Deodhar (Na Aavadti Goshta).

The festival featured a glamorous red carpet, film premieres, masterclasses, interactive Meet & Greet sessions, M4M-2 movie auditions, and dynamic engagements between artists and audiences. Additionally, the event showcased a curated selection of international short films designed to highlight diverse and emerging filmmaking talent from around the globe. Now in its third year, NAFA continues to strengthen the bond between global Marathi audiences and filmmakers while celebrating the rich heritage and artistry of Marathi cinema on an international stage.

Acknowledgments and Special Thanks
Organizers extended special appreciation to Dr. Harsha Muley for making the event possible, alongside valuable support provided by Mansi Deoleker, Rucha Kshirsagar, Mayura Khatawker, Snehal Aathwale, Smita, Sneha, Shruti, and Shubhda Ingole.