Marathi cinema has achieved a major international milestone with ‘Gondhal’ being selected as India’s official entry for the 2027 Academy Awards. The Film Federation of India announced the selection on September 18, 2026, choosing the Santosh Davakhar-directed film from 33 submissions.
Set in rural Maharashtra, Gondhal revolves around the traditional Gondhal ritual and explores relationships, tradition, aspirations and human conflicts. The film features actors including Ishita Deshmukh, Kishor Kadam, Yogesh Sohoni, Nishad Bhoir and Anuj Prabhu.
The selection also marks the fourth time a Marathi film has been chosen to represent India at the Oscars, following Shwaas, Harishchandrachi Factory and Court.
Director Santosh Davakhar has also received recognition at the International Film Festival of India, where he won the Silver Peacock for Best Director. The film’s Oscar selection brings further attention to Marathi storytelling and Maharashtra’s cultural traditions on an international platform.
The 99th Academy Awards are scheduled for March 14, 2027, in Los Angeles. Gondhal will compete in the Best International Feature Film category as India’s official submission.
The Oscar selection is being seen as an important moment for Marathi cinema, which has produced several critically acclaimed films over the years. Gondhal was chosen from the films considered for India’s official submission to the Academy Awards.
The film’s journey will now move to the next stage of the Oscars process, where it will compete with international entries for a place in the final nominations. The selection has also generated interest among Marathi film audiences and the wider Indian film industry.
The recognition highlights how regional Indian cinema continues to reach audiences beyond language and geographical boundaries. With its traditional setting, distinctive storytelling and Marathi cultural identity, ‘Gondhal’ now carries India’s representation on the global Oscar platform.