‘Gondhal’: India’s Oscar Entry Explores Rural Power Dynamics

Santosh Davakhar’s ‘Gondhal’ has been selected as India’s official entry for the Oscars 2027 in the Best International Feature category. Set in rural Maharashtra, the film unfolds over a single night, intertwining the lives of a newly-wed couple with the traditional Jagran Gondhal performance, a folk ritual that propitiates the gods while cautioning humans through songs and skits. The narrative explores themes of power, deception, and desire, reflecting the societal norms and human desires of rural Maharashtra.

Plot and Themes

‘Gondhal’ follows Suman (Ishita Deshmukh), a young woman trapped in an oppressive marriage, as she plots a murder and an escape with her forbidden lover. The film’s title, which means ‘confusion’ in Marathi, reflects the hidden layers in the screenplay and the haphazard writing. The story is set against the backdrop of the Gondhal ritual, a midnight carnival that serves as a metaphor for the film’s exploration of societal norms and human desires. The film’s themes of misaligned manhood, suppressed womanhood, sexual desire, and revenge are captured in earthy, often snide dialogue, and the characters are wily and self-serving, not above casual violence.

Cultural Significance

‘Gondhal’ is the fourth Marathi film to be submitted for the Oscars, following ‘Shwaas’ (2005), ‘Harishchandrachi Factory’ (2009), and ‘Court’ (2015). The film’s selection highlights the growing recognition of Marathi cinema, which has been championed by women audiences in theaters and has found a fresh voice in Bollywood’s backyard. Despite its slow pacing in the middle, the film’s powerful finale and strong performances, particularly by Kishor Kadam and Ishita Deshmukh, have been noted as its standout features.

Reception and Awards

‘Gondhal’ premiered at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in 2025, where Davakhar won the Silver Peacock for Best Director. The film was chosen as India’s submission for the Best International Feature category from a list of 33 films by the Film Federation of India (FFI). The film stars Ishita Deshmukh, Kishor Kadam, Yogesh Sohani, and Nishad Bhoir, with music composed by Ilaiyaraaja.

Oscar Prospects

While ‘Gondhal’ has been selected as India’s official entry for the Oscars 2027, its selection does not guarantee a nomination or win. Only three Indian films have ever been nominated in the Best International Feature category: ‘Mother India’ (1958), ‘Salaam Bombay!’ (1989), and ‘Lagaan’ (2002). The 99th Oscars will take place on Sunday, March 14, 2027.