Delhi is all set to host the first International Film Festival Delhi (IFFD). It will take place from March 25 to 31, 2026. Over seven days, more than a hundred films from India and abroad will be screened. Here's a look at what's on offer.
Organisers have confirmed that all screenings at the film festival will be free. Entry will be through prior registration, making it easy for students, film fans, and the general public to attend. The festival is designed as a city-wide event, bringing world cinema closer to everyday audiences while giving local filmmakers and technicians a chance to connect with international peers.
The event is organised by the Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation as part of a government-led initiative. Over the seven days, the festival will feature more than 125 films from India and around the world. About 30 per cent of the films in the festival will come from five different countries. However, unlike other similar events, around 40 per cent will be Hindi-language films. Only the rest will feature regional cinema from across India.
Apart from screenings, organisers say that the programme will include gala premieres, workshops, panel discussions, masterclasses, and cultural performances. Industry professionals will have opportunities to network through the CineXchange Film Market and Cineverse Expo. The festival will also introduce a single-window system to simplify permissions and processes for shooting and production in the city.
Delhi is a little late to the party. There are over a dozen major city-based international film festivals in India, with key events including the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa (FIAPF accredited), Mumbai Film Festival (MAMI), Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF), Jaipur International Film Festival (JIFF), and Chennai International Film Festival (CIFF).
Other significant, recurring city-based festivals include Bengaluru (BIFFes), Dharamshala (DIFF), Kerala (IDSFFK), and Hyderabad (HIFF). Historically, Delhi was the primary host for the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) before it moved to its permanent home in Goa in 2004. There is also the New Delhi Film Festival (NDFF). The 7th edition was held in March 2024 at the India International Centre.
Dates: March 25 – 31, 2026
Opening & Closing Venue: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
Total Films: Over 125 films from India and abroad
Breakdown: 40 per cent Hindi films, 30 per cent regional Indian films, 30 per cent international films
Special Sections: Patriotic films, spiritual stories, and children’s cinema
Screenings: Free for all
Registration: Prior registration required for entry
Workshops and masterclasses
Film bazaars and tech showcases
Public screenings across multiple venues
How many films will be shown?
Over 125 films from India and abroad will be screened during the seven-day festival.
What types of films will be featured?
The festival will include Hindi films, regional Indian films, and international films. Special sections will feature patriotic films, spiritual stories, and children’s cinema.
Is there an entry fee?
No. All screenings are free, but prior registration is required to attend.
Are there other events apart from film screenings?
Yes. The festival will also host workshops, masterclasses, panel discussions, film bazaars, tech showcases, and cultural performances.
Can industry professionals attend networking events?
Yes. The CineXchange Film Market and Cineverse Expo will offer networking and business opportunities for filmmakers, producers, and other industry professionals.