The team behind the Marathi film ‘Gondhal’ met with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in Mumbai on September 29, 2026. This meeting marked a significant occasion as ‘Gondhal’ is India’s official entry for the upcoming 99th Academy Awards. The gathering celebrated the film’s achievements and provided a platform for the cast and crew to discuss their experiences in bringing a Marathi narrative to an international audience.

The meeting was initiated by filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, who currently serves as President of the Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA). Ameet Satam, the President of BJP Mumbai, took the lead in facilitating the discussion, which included a notable assembly of the film’s notable figures such as writer-director-producer Santosh Davakhar, producer Diksha Davakhar, and actors Kishore Kadam, Ishita Deshmukh, and Yogesh Sohoni. The presence of Ashok Dubey, General Secretary of FWICE, alongside IFTDA members Nishant Ujwal and Swapna Waghmare Joshi, highlighted the collaborative nature of the event.

Overview of the Film ‘Gondhal’

‘Gondhal’ is described as a psychological thriller that draws inspiration from an age-old Maharashtrian ritual of the same name. Crafted by Santosh Davakhar, the film explores a night filled with emotional upheaval and the unveiling of concealed truths among its characters. It delves deep into complex themes such as trust, betrayal, and human relationships, creating a narrative that resonates with Maharashtra’s rich cultural heritage.

The film features a talented cast featuring Ishita Deshmukh, Kishore Kadam, and Yogesh Sohoni. Through its insightful storytelling, ‘Gondhal’ aims to connect with audiences on both a local and global scale, celebrating traditional values while addressing contemporary issues. The film’s aesthetic and thematic elements have garnered attention, enabling it to stand out in the competitive landscape of cinema.

In terms of accolades, the film has received recognition at various film festivals. Davakhar was awarded the Silver Peacock for Best Director at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), while ‘Gondhal’ itself secured the FIPRESCI Award at the Bengaluru International Film Festival. These achievements reinforce the film’s artistic merit and its cultural significance.

Future Prospects and Global Reach

As part of its Oscar journey, ‘Gondhal’ is set to have a worldwide theatrical release in multiple languages, including Marathi, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada. This multilingual release aims to broaden the film’s audience and share its narrative beyond the confines of regional cinema, allowing it to reach viewers from diverse backgrounds.

The film’s selection for the Academy Awards has amplified its visibility and provided an opportunity to showcase Maharashtra’s cultural stories on a world stage. The team expressed optimism that ‘Gondhal’ would resonate with a vast array of audiences around the globe, promoting Indian cinema and fostering cultural exchange.

As the film continues its preparations for release, the team remains committed to honouring the cultural essence of Maharashtra and contributing significantly to India’s cinematic representation on an international platform. The meeting with Chief Minister Fadnavis affirmed their dedication to bringing local stories to the forefront of global cinema.

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