Marathi film ‘Gondhal’, written and directed by Santosh Davakhar, has been selected as India’s official entry for the 99th Academy Awards (Oscars 2027) in the Best International Feature Film category. The Film Federation of India selected the film from 33 submissions, marking a significant milestone for Marathi cinema. Set in rural Maharashtra, the psychological thriller unfolds against the backdrop of the traditional Gondhal folk ritual and explores themes of relationships, ambition and hidden truths. The film features actors including Ishita Deshmukh, Kishor Kadam and Yogesh Sohoni, with music composed by Ilaiyaraaja. ‘Gondhal’ is the fourth Marathi-language film to be selected as India’s official Oscar entry, following Shwaas (2005), Harishchandrachi Factory (2009) and Court (2015). The selection brings Maharashtra’s cultural traditions and regional storytelling to an international platform.