Archive · 18 Sep 2026
Marathi Thriller Gondhal Named India’s 2027 Oscar Entry
Gondhal is a Marathi-language thriller directed by Santosh Davakhar.
India chose it to represent the country at the 2027 Oscars.
The film was selected from 33 movies made in different Indian languages.
Its story happens during a traditional overnight music, dance and drumming ritual in Maharashtra.
The main character, Suman, is trapped in a difficult marriage.
She becomes involved in a dangerous plan involving her lover.
The film premiered at the 2025 International Film Festival of India, where Davakhar won a Silver Peacock for Best Director.
Gondhal must still pass the Academy’s voting process before it can become an Oscar nominee.
The Film Federation of India selected Marathi thriller Gondhal as India’s official entry for the 2027 Oscars.
Directed by Santosh Davakhar, the film will compete in the Best International Feature category.
Gondhal was chosen from 33 submissions spanning several Indian languages, including a silent film.
Set during the traditional Gondhal ritual in rural Maharashtra, the film follows Suman as her oppressive marriage unravels.
The 99th Academy Awards are scheduled for March 14, 2027, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.
- Who
- The Film Federation of India selected Gondhal, directed by Santosh Davakhar, as India’s submission.
- What
- Gondhal was named India’s official entry for the Best International Feature category at the 2027 Oscars.
- When
- The announcement was made on Friday, September 18, 2026; the awards ceremony is scheduled for March 14, 2027.
- Where
- The selection was announced at a press conference in Mumbai, and the ceremony is scheduled for the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.
- Why
- A jury chaired by P Sheshadri chose Gondhal from 33 submissions and said it could resonate with critics and global audiences.
- Film
- Gondhal
- Language
- Marathi
- Director
- Santosh Davakhar
- Oscar category
- Best International Feature
- Submissions
- 33 films
- Selection jury chair
- P Sheshadri
- Release
- Released in cinemas in November 2025; not yet available on a streaming platform
- Awards ceremony
- March 14, 2027, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles
Sources
Gondhal On OTT: Where To Watch Indian's Official Entry To Oscars 2027 Online
Marathi Film 'Gondhal' Is India's Pick For Oscars 2027
Marathi film Gondhal is India's official entry for Oscars 2027
Marathi Film Gondhal Beats Dhurandhar, Hanuman Ansh To Become India's 2027 Oscar Entry
Marathi Thriller Gondhal Is India's Official Entry To Oscars 2027
Marathi film 'Gondhal' named India's official Oscar 2027 entry
Marathi musical ‘Gondhal’ is India’s official entry to Oscars 2027