Marathi Film ‘Gondhal’ Nominated as India’s Official Entry for Oscars 2027

Mumbai: Marathi film ‘Gondhal’, written and directed by Santosh Davkhar, has been selected as India’s official entry for the 99th Academy Awards (Oscars 2027). The Film Federation of India announced the selection on Friday.

P. Sheshadri, chairman of the selection committee, said ‘Gondhal’ was chosen from among 33 films.

Set in rural Maharashtra, the film unfolds over the course of one night during the traditional Gondhal ritual centred around a newly-wed couple. The story explores the ritual along with human vulnerability, ambition and tradition.

The film features Kishor Kadam, Ishita Deshmukh, Yogesh Sohoni, Nishad Bhoir, Suresh Vishwakarma and Anuj Prabhu.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis congratulated the team after the announcement. In a post on X, Fadnavis said the film connects with Maharashtra’s folk traditions and culture and will represent India on the international stage.

“A Moment of Pride for Marathi Cinema!” Fadnavis wrote, congratulating the entire team of ‘Gondhal’ and wishing the film success on the global stage.