Marathi film ’Gondhal’ selected as India’s official entry for Oscars 2027

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, Sep 18, 2026: Marathi thriller Gondhal has been selected as India’s official entry for the 99th Academy Awards. The Film Federation of India (FFI) announced the selection on Friday.

The film was chosen by an expert jury from more than 30 entries and will represent India in the Best International Feature Film category at the Oscars.

Directed by Santosh Davakhar, Gondhal is a gripping thriller set against the backdrop of Maharashtra’s traditional midnight folk ritual of the same name. The film blends cultural heritage with suspense, unfolding through a night of unexpected and dramatic events during a sacred ceremony.

The selection adds another chapter to Marathi cinema’s history at the Oscars, following acclaimed films such as Shwaas and Harishchandrachi Factory, which were previously chosen as India’s official entries.

Davakhar has already earned recognition for his work on the film, winning the Silver Peacock for Best Director at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI).

The selection was welcomed by members of the Indian film industry and artists across the country. FFI officials said the film’s strong cultural roots and universal appeal helped it stand out before the jury.

With its selection as India’s official entry, Gondhal now enters the international awards campaign ahead of the 99th Academy Awards, scheduled to be held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on March 14, 2027.