Marathi Film 'Gondhal' Sparks Oscar Debate

Marathi film 'Gondhal' has been officially selected to represent India in the Best International Feature Film category at the 99th Academy Awards. This decision has ignited a discussion, with filmmaker Anurag Kashyap questioning the choice and suggesting other films might have had stronger international appeal. Director Santosh Davakhar has addressed these comments, sharing his respectful dialogue with Kashyap. Davakhar explained that he introduced 'Gondhal' to Kashyap earlier this year, highlighting that the film has not been widely released. He urged viewers to experience the film before judgment, describing it as a psychological thriller created for the big screen.

Davakhar further emphasized that 'Gondhal' is the work of a debut filmmaker from outside the established industry. He believes the film, inspired by the traditional Maharashtrian Gondhal ritual, offers a blend of cultural elements and universal themes. Kashyap, meanwhile, pointed to films like 'The Lunchbox' and 'All We Imagine As Light,' advocating for international festival exposure and American distribution as crucial for Oscar consideration. He also suggested that the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) should leverage winning films from festivals like IFFI for wider exposure.