‘Gondhal’ stings on IFFI stage; International glimpse of traditional faith!

Goa, November 8, 2025 – The Marathi film industry has gained wings for another big success. National Award-winning director Santosh Davkhar’s much-awaited film ‘Gondhal’ has been officially selected in the prestigious ‘Indian Panorama Golden Peacock Section’ of the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) of the Government of India. The inclusion of Marathi films in this global festival, which is decorated with the slogan ‘Celebrate the Joy of Cinema’, is a proud moment not only for the film team but also for the entire Marathi film industry.
The film ‘Gondhal’ is set against the unique backdrop of the ‘Gondhal’ ritual in traditional Maharashtrian culture. This folk ritual, which is performed to remove obstacles in the married life of a husband and wife, is not limited to religious customs but also confronts the conflict of human emotions, superstitions, changing perspectives in society and modernity. The film is a blend of magnificent visions of folk art, impressive cinematography and technical excellence. Produced under the banner of Davkhar Films, the film is now preparing to make its mark internationally while making a mark in the hearts of local audiences.
Speaking about this success, director Santosh Davkhar said with great emotion, “It is a matter of great pride and joy for our team. ‘Gondhal’ is a film rooted in our soil, related to faith and traditions. Its selection at an international film festival like IFFI, organized by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, is an honor for the hard work of our entire team. There can be no greater reward than this, our art is getting recognition at the global level.”
The story, screenplay and dialogues of ‘Gondhal’ have been written by Santosh Davkhar himself, and co-producer Diksha Davkhar has strongly supported this project. The film will feature a great mix of experienced and new actors. Veteran actors like Kishore Kadam, Ishita Deshmukh, Yogesh Sohoni, Nishad Bhoir, Anuj Prabhu, Suresh Vishwakarma, Madhavi Juvekar, Aishwarya Shinde, Kailash Waghmare, Prabhakar Mathpati, Vitthal Kale, Praveen Dalimbkar, Sharad Jadhav, Poonam Patil and Dhruv Thoke are appearing in the lead roles. The magic of the acting of all these actors will definitely mesmerize the audience.
Along with ‘Gondhal’, another Marathi film, ‘Aata Thambayacha Nai!’, has also been selected in the Indian Panorama section of IFFI. Since both the films are the debuts of their directors, this is a great example of the creativity of a new generation. However, ‘Gondhal’ has won the ‘Golden Peacock’ competition, which can give this film a chance for the highest award.
Marathi cinema has been winning international awards consistently in the last few years. Films like ‘Court’, ‘Sairat’, ‘Natarang’ have taken the world stage. Now the success of ‘Gondhal’ is taking this tradition forward. This film is not only entertaining but also presents the roots of Maharashtrian culture to a global audience. The scenes adorned with traditional instruments, folk dances and grand scenes of Gondhal will take the audience to their native village.
The film ‘Gondhal’ will be released in all major cinemas in Maharashtra on November 14. After the special screening at IFFI, the audience’s reaction will definitely be encouraging. For Marathi audiences, this film will be the beginning of a new era, where our soil and culture will resonate on a global scale.
This news is a celebration for Marathi cinema fans. With the success of ‘Gondhal’, the stage of IFFI will be even more colorful. Soon this film will meet the audience and will spread the glory of Marathi culture to the world!