India selects the Marathi psychological thriller “Gondhal” as its official entry for the 99th Academy Awards, Film Federation of India announced. Multiple outlets report the film was chosen from 33 submissions (including comparisons to films such as “Dhurandhar” and “Hanuman Ansh” in some coverage). The movie is written and directed by Santosh Davakhar and is set in rural Maharashtra around a traditional “Gondhal” ritual involving a newlywed couple over a night of events.
The reporting also highlights Davakhar’s background and the film’s festival and awards credentials. The Hindu and The Free Press Journal say Davakhar wrote and directed the film, while other outlets add that he previously worked outside filmmaking and that he drew on global influences. The Free Press Journal says the film had positive critical reception and references Davakhar’s Silver Peacock win. Times of India notes IFTDA and FWICE seeking government support for the Oscar campaign, citing promotional and travel costs.
Ahead of any wider release, Free Press Journal reports “exclusive preview screenings” in six cities beginning October 9, across multiple languages and theatres, with a broader theatrical release date not yet announced. Some outlets also include contrasting viewpoints, including filmmaker Anurag Kashyap questioning the selection and urging further international festival presence before the campaign.
