Archive · 19 Sep 2026
Marathi Thriller Gondhal Named India’s 2027 Oscar Entry
Gondhal is a Marathi thriller film made by Santosh Davakhar.
It was chosen to represent India at the 2027 Oscars.
A 14-person jury selected it from 33 films.
The story happens in rural Maharashtra during a traditional ritual involving a newly married couple.
The jury said everyone agreed that Gondhal was the best choice.
The film was released on November 14, 2025.
Davakhar said he feels nervous because representing India is a big responsibility.
He also said his team is ready to promote the film in Los Angeles.
The 99th Academy Awards are planned for March 14, 2027.
The Film Federation of India selected Marathi thriller Gondhal as India’s official entry for the 2027 Oscars.
A 14-member jury chaired by Kannada filmmaker Pattabhiramaiah Sheshadri chose the film from 33 submissions.
Written and directed by Santosh Davakhar, Gondhal is set during a traditional overnight ritual in rural Maharashtra.
The jury described the selection as unanimous after screenings, discussion and gradual eliminations.
Davakhar said he feels nervous about the responsibility, while most of the film’s Los Angeles media and public-relations team has been hired.
- Who
- The Film Federation of India selected Gondhal, written and directed by Santosh Davakhar, as India’s entry.
- What
- Gondhal was chosen as India’s official entry for the 99th Academy Awards, or 2027 Oscars.
- When
- The selection was announced on a Friday; the Academy Awards are scheduled for March 14, 2027.
- Where
- The announcement was made in Mumbai, and the ceremony is scheduled at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.
- Why
- A 14-member jury considered Gondhal an ideal film to represent India internationally and selected it unanimously.
- Film
- Gondhal
- Director
- Santosh Davakhar
- Selection body
- Film Federation of India
- Jury
- 14 members, chaired by Pattabhiramaiah Sheshadri
- Films considered
- 33
- Film release
- November 14, 2025
- Awards ceremony
- March 14, 2027, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles
