Marathi Film 'Gondhal', India's Oscar Entry, to Release in Seven Languages Nov 13

'Gondhal', a psychological thriller drawing on cultural traditions from Maharashtra, is set for a worldwide release in seven languages on November 13. The film has been selected as India's official entry for the 99th Academy Awards.

Director Santosh Davakhar said the team originally planned a Diwali release but shifted the date to November 13 to avoid clashing with the buzz around 'Ramayana', which opens on November 5. He said the shift would allow audiences to be ready for a different kind of film experience a week later.

According to Davakhar, the story combines themes of devotion, deception, desire and betrayal, built around a sacred ritual that becomes the backdrop for a psychological thriller. He said the intent was to craft a story rooted in Maharashtra that could still represent India on an international platform.

Adapting the film for seven languages required keeping dialogue natural in each version while preserving the Marathi cultural setting, traditional music and village atmosphere, the director said. He added that the emotions at the film's core, such as jealousy, greed and the pursuit of power, are universal enough to resonate with audiences unfamiliar with the specific ritual depicted.

Davakhar said being chosen as India's Oscar entry carries added responsibility, given the country's diversity and the many traditions that exist within it. He noted that the film was selected by the jury for its overall quality across departments, including performances from lesser-known actors, and said the film was designed for theatrical viewing rather than an OTT release.

The director said marketing remains crucial for Marathi cinema competing against larger Hindi and South Indian releases, with word of mouth expected to play a key role. He also said his upcoming project, 'Shahaji Raje', based on Maharashtra's history, has been paused for a few months so the team can focus fully on the Oscar campaign for 'Gondhal'.