Marathi psychological thriller Gondhal, selected as India’s official entry for the 2027 Oscars, will receive a pan-India theatrical release on November 13, 2026. Directed by Santosh Davakhar, the film will arrive in six languages: Marathi, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada.
The announcement follows its selection by the Film Federation of India on September 18 for the Best International Feature Film category at the 99th Academy Awards.
What Is Gondhal About?
Set in rural Maharashtra, Gondhal follows Suman, a young woman trapped in an unhappy marriage who manipulates her lover Sarjerao’s obsession with a traditional Gondhal ritual.
As the overnight ceremony unfolds, hidden desires, betrayal and village rivalries transform a sacred occasion into a dangerous psychological battle.
The film stars Kishor Kadam, Ishitaa Deshmukh, Yogesh Sohoni and Nishad Bhoir, with music composed by legendary musician Ilaiyaraaja.
Why Gondhal’s Pan-India Release Matters
The nationwide expansion comes after special preview screenings began on October 9 in select Indian cities.
Speaking about the film’s journey, director Santosh Davakhar said, “Cinema has no language barriers when the emotion is raw and honest.”
Gondhal has already attracted recognition at film festivals, including the Silver Peacock for Best Director at the 56th International Film Festival of India.
The film also won six Filmfare Awards Marathi in 2026, including Best Screenplay.
Meanwhile, KGF and Kantara producer Hombale Films has joined the project as its overseas theatrical distributor, extending its international reach.
Importantly, India’s official Oscar submission is not automatically an Oscar nomination. The film must still progress through the Academy’s selection process.
With its November release, Gondhal has an opportunity to introduce Maharashtra’s traditional folk culture and its unsettling thriller narrative to audiences across India.
