Manchester-based photographer Iqra Saied has launched her first solo photography exhibition, Desi United, inspired by the iconic film Bend It Like Beckham. The exhibition is being held at Richard Street Studios in Rochdale and will run until July 18, 2026.
Desi United is a photography series that explores themes of identity, culture, and football through an authentic lens. Influenced by the artist's family's support for Manchester United and the cultural impact of the film, the series revisits Jess Bhamra's story for a new generation. The exhibition arrives at a moment when global attention is building towards the FIFA World Cup 2026, celebrating football as a shared language across cultures and communities.
Iqra began planning her project after revisiting the film and noticing a lack of creative reinterpretations. She shared her vision online, connecting with women who were passionate about getting involved. Using borrowed Manchester United shirts from her father as nostalgic relics, the project grew through collaboration and shared admiration for the film. The series resonated strongly with many people online, including the director herself, Gurinder Chadha, who commented, "Bang on in the spirit of my movie!"
Iqra Saied shared: "I am fortunate to have the opportunity to do my first solo exhibition, showcasing work inspired by a classic film that has resonated with many communities. It is a significant milestone in my early career, and I am excited to see the response to the exhibit."
Parvez Qadir, artistic director of Breaking Barriers and lead tenant at Richard Street Studios, said: "Breaking Barriers are so proud to host Iqra's first solo exhibition at Richard Street Studios, Rochdale. Desi United is a celebration of powerful Asian women caught through Iqra's creative eye. Bend It Like Beckham is the inspiration, however Iqra has made the photography exhibition relevant for today's audience. We are excited for communities to come see the work."
Following a successful launch night, guided tours of the exhibition have taken place throughout April and May, receiving a hugely positive response from audiences. Due to continued interest and demand, additional ticketed tour slots have now been opened. Tickets for the exhibition can be reserved via Eventbrite, with visitors booking a one-hour time slot to experience the exhibition and guided tour by Iqra Saied. Tours are now available for Tuesday, June 23 and Wednesday, June 24, with slots running between 2pm and 6pm. Slots for July will be confirmed soon.
Iqra Saied is a photographer based in Manchester. Her work explores a combination of incorporating South Asian culture and storytelling. Through her practice, she aims to represent communities who are undervalued. Themes surrounding her perspective of identity are prominent in her work. In 2025, Iqra achieved the MACFEST photography award.
The exhibition is produced by Liam Hobday in collaboration with Breaking Barriers Rochdale and hosted by Richard Street Studios at 44 Richard Street, Rochdale. For more information, contact Iqra via email at iqra.saied@gmail.com.
In addition to Desi United, the article also highlights other local events in Rochdale, including the Syke Arts and Crafts Exhibition, a family dance show Tin Man and the Scarecrow, an organ recital by Jean Martyn at Rochdale Town Hall, and RochTales, a free live performance of new short stories. Other community events include Lego Club at Littleborough Library, a Tuesday Reading Group at Spotland Library, and Toad Lane Concerts at St Mary in the Baum.
