The Marathi thriller ‘Gondhal’ has been officially chosen as India’s entry for the International Feature Film category at the Oscars 2027. This announcement was made by the Film Federation of India (FFI) on September 18, 2026. The selection process was carried out by the FFI Selection Committee, which is composed of 14 members who represent various regions and expertise within the Indian film industry.

Chairing the committee is filmmaker P Sheshadri, who led the panel in evaluating numerous submissions for this prestigious opportunity. The decision underscores FFI’s commitment to promoting Indian cinema on the global stage, particularly through esteemed platforms like the Academy Awards.

Details of the Film and Its Cast

‘Gondhal’ is directed by Santosh Davakhar and features a talented cast, including Kishor Kadam, Ishita Deshmukh, Yogesh Sohoni, Nishad Bhoir, and Anuj Prabhu in pivotal roles. The film has a runtime of approximately two hours and uses its rural Maharashtra backdrop to delve into themes of tradition, ambition, and vulnerability, crafting a narrative that resonates with contemporary audiences.

The film was among multiple entries that were considered by the FFI for this honour. The diverse experiences of the Selection Committee members played a vital role in the decision-making process, as they included professionals from various facets of filmmaking such as actors, producers, cinematographers, and editors.

This selection marks a significant achievement for Marathi cinema, signalling recognition on a global level, particularly as it competes in the Academy Awards’ International Feature Film category. The film industry’s response has been overwhelmingly supportive, reflecting the growing prominence of regional films in India’s cinematic landscape.

Reactions from the Film’s Team

The producers and team behind ‘Gondhal’ took to social media to express their gratitude following the announcement. They articulated their pride in being able to represent India at such a renowned international platform. Their statement highlighted their appreciation for the Government of India, the FFI, and the esteemed jury members who contributed to this momentous occasion for the film.

In a collective statement, they emphasised that this achievement is not solely theirs but belongs to every individual who was part of the film’s journey. They acknowledged the efforts of the cast and crew, stating that their dedication brought the film’s vision to life. The film’s team characterised this as a significant step for not just ‘Gondhal’, but also for the cultural representation of India on a global scale.

The recognition from the Oscars adds to ‘Gondhal’s’ successes on the film festival circuit, having already garnered accolades at various events such as IFFI, the Bengaluru International Film Festival, the Pune International Film Festival, and the Third Eye Asian International Film Festival. This film rapidly ascends the ranks of esteemed productions, reinforcing its potential impact on international audiences.

Contextual Significance of the Film

‘Gondhal’ is set against rich cultural traditions and narratives of rural Maharashtra, exploring how ancient rituals intersect with modern aspirations. This thematic depth not only enriches the film’s storyline but also invites critical engagement from a global audience.

As the film prepares to enter the world stage through the Oscars, it continues to accumulate recognition that reflects its artistic merit and cultural significance. This pivotal moment for ‘Gondhal’ exemplifies the increasing visibility of Marathi cinema within the broader Indian film industry.

With its scheduled theatrical release on November 14, 2025, ‘Gondhal’ is positioned to continue garnering attention in the lead-up to the Academy Awards, further showcasing the talent and stories emerging from India’s diverse film community.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share