Marathi Film Gondhal Becomes India's Oscar Entry
What Happened
The selection marks a major achievement for Marathi cinema, with Gondhal becoming only the fourth Marathi film to represent India at the Oscars. India is still seeking its first-ever win in the Best International Feature Film category, although films such as Mother India, Salaam Bombay!, and Lagaan have previously secured nominations. Gondhal, a Marathi film written and directed by Santosh Davakhar, has been chosen as India's official submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 99th Academy Awards (Oscars 2027). It was selected from a shortlist of 33 Indian films by the Film Federation of India. Set in rural Maharashtra, the film revolves around a newlywed couple and unfolds over a night-long traditional Gondhal ritual. The movie has already earned recognition on the festival circuit, including a Silver Peacock for Best Director at IFFI and the FIPRESCI Award at the Bengaluru International Film Festival.
Key Takeaways
The selection marks a major achievement for Marathi cinema, with Gondhal becoming only the fourth Marathi film to represent India at the Oscars. India is still seeking its first-ever win in the Best International Feature Film category, although films such as Mother India, Salaam Bombay!, and Lagaan have previously secured nominations.