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The wait is finally over! Delhi is reclaiming its cinematic soul with the International Film Festival 2026. This March 25, 2026, the capital is all set to transform into a global stage for the inaugural International Film Festival Delhi (IFFD). From the grand halls of Bharat Mandapam to open-air screenings across the city, this film festival in Delhi isn't just an event, but a revolution for India’s Orange Economy. So, whether you are a cinephile chasing world premieres or a creator looking for the next big break at the CineXchange market, Delhi is the place to be! Ready to witness history in frames? Here is your guide to the International Film Festival Delhi 2026.
Delhi film festival schedule and key dates
The International Film Festival Delhi (IFFD) 2026 is set to unfold over seven cinematic days, which will officially run from March 25 to March 31. The festivities of the film festival in Delhi will commence with a star-studded opening ceremony on March 25, 2026, at the world-class Bharat Mandapam, which serves as the film festival’s primary hub. Throughout the week, the city will breathe cinema as masterclasses, workshops, and over 125+ screenings will take place across various multiplexes and iconic public spaces. As a part of the major industry highlight, the CineXchange Film Market will be running concurrently, providing a dedicated space for networking and trade. The grand finale will take place on March 31, 2026, featuring an awards ceremony that honours both global legends and the local talent of Delhi, effectively closing this historic inaugural chapter.
Screenings for all
In a bold move to make high-quality cinema accessible to every Dilliwalah, the International Film Festival 2026 is breaking away from the traditional elite-only festival model. The most striking feature of this inaugural edition is that all film screenings are free of cost for the public, provided that they register in advance through the official DTTDC portal. In order to ensure that the film festival reaches beyond the walls of upscale auditoriums, the Delhi government has also curated a ‘Cinema under the Stars’ initiative, featuring open-air projections in iconic public squares and local neighbourhoods. So, whether it is a high-octane Bollywood blockbuster, a poignant regional indie, or a cutting-edge international documentary, the programming is designed to be inclusive, ensuring that students, families, and seasoned critics alike can find a seat at the table.
What to watch: A curated cinematic feast
The heart of the International Film Festival Delhi 2026 lies in its massive and diverse lineup of 125+ films, all of which has been carefully selected to reflect both the pulse of global cinema and the richness of Indian storytelling. The programming is strategically balanced to offer something for every palate. 40% of the slate is dedicated to Hindi cinema, showcasing the best of mainstream and independent Bollywood, while 30% focuses on regional Indian films, bringing forth the linguistic depth of South, East, and Northeast Indian cinema to the capital. The remaining 30% features International Titles from over 100 countries, which also includes high-profile premieres.
For those seeking specific themes, this film festival in Delhi introduces several specifically curated sections that go beyond traditional genres.
Patriotic cinema- These films are a tribute to stories of national grit and history.
Spiritual stories- These are films that explore the deep philosophical and cultural roots of India.
Children’s cinema- This is a dedicated segment that has been designed to inspire the next generation of storytellers.
The cineverse showcase- These are films that highlight innovation, including those that push the boundaries of AI, VFX, and immersive storytelling.
From star-studded Gala Premieres at the Bharat Mandapam to experimental shorts in neighbourhood parks, the 2026 lineup is designed in such a way so as to be a truly democratic celebration of the moving image.
A map of India’s premier film festivals
While the International Film Festival Delhi 2026 is the newest crown jewel in the capital, it joins a prestigious lineage of Indian film festivals that have long defined the country's cultural landscape. Here are some of the major stops on India’s cinematic circuit-
1. International Film Festival of India (IFFI), Goa
This one is the granddaddy of them all, and one of the Asia’s oldest film festival. Held every November, IFFI transforms the sun-soaked shores of Goa into a high octane hub of world cinema. It is famous for its Golden Peacock awards, and the massive Film Bazaar, which is South Asia’s largest film market, along with the vibrant IFFIESTA, which is a carnival of music and food that runs alongside the screenings.
2. Mumbai Film Festival (MAMI)
Often called the People’s Festival, MAMI is the heart of India’s film industry. It is known for its rigorous selection of independent global cinema and the Dimensions Mumbai category, which celebrates young local talent.
3. Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF)
Reflecting the intellectual and artistic spirit of Bengal, KIFF is the third-oldest film festival in India. It is famous for its massive public participation and the Golden Royal Bengal Tiger award.
4. International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK)
Renowned for having the most politically conscious and passionate audience in the world, IFFK is held in Thiruvananthapuram. It is the place for dissent and discovery, focusing heavily on films from Asia, Africa, and Latin America.