Cinema and Delhi have an age-old bond. With poetry and drama being an integral part of the city’s ethos, there have been multiple screenings of astounding cinematography over the years. But none like this. Bringing the soul of cinema to the public, the Government of Delhi, with the Delhi Tourism & Transport Development Corporation (DTTDC), is leading a city-wide celebration of films this March. The flagship initiative, International Film Festival Delhi (IFFD 2026), begins its very first edition across seven days of free screenings of Indian and International films, starting March 25. With over 2000+ submissions already, the aim is to bring creative experiences closer and make them more accessible to people.
International Film Festival Delhi (IFFD 2026)
The week-long festivities of the International Film Festival of Delhi will take place from March 25 to March 30, 2026. The debut edition promises film screenings across the city. Moreover, it will provide opportunities for first-time filmmakers, cinema masterclasses, curated producer labs, and tributes to cinema icons. Sparking a magnitude of stories, there are 2098 submissions locally and internationally, including 1151 non-feature and 221 feature international films. Over the coming days, the festival committee is set to review and shortlist 125+ films for screening. Additionally, the programme will follow a unique 40-30-30 rule, with 40% deep dive into Hindi cinema, 30 % of regional films celebrating India’s diversity, and 30% international screenings from five continents.
Women In Films
Yet another highlight at the IFFD 2026 is “Her Lens: Women in Films“. The initiative developed through a collaboration with Women in Film India focuses on women storytellers, actors, filmmakers, and women-centric films. Led by the Academy Award-winning producer, Guneet Monga, the initiative celebrates the depth and nuances brought to cinema with women at the forefront. The lineup of women focussed screenings includes Thappad, Pink, The Accused, Marathi film Teeghi, and Mrs, showcasing social realities of being a woman. Additionally, the initiative will also present an in-depth panel discussion, “Women in Cinema: Voice, Power and the Future of Storytelling”.
Cinema Gala And Emerging Talents
The opening ceremony at Bharat Mandapam is expected to be a star-studded fest featuring live performances and celebrity guests. Additionally, the closing ceremony is also expected to take place in the latter destination, which includes an awards ceremony honouring distinguished film personalities.
The week will further unpack masterclasses and workshops led by acclaimed directors and actors focusing on VFX, sound design, and the art of filmmaking. A film bazaar and tech expo will bring together co-productions and distribution deals alongside an expo that showcases the latest innovations in cinema. Additionally, script labs and pitching forums will provide emerging filmmakers with a direct channel to present their projects to potential producers and investors.
The screenings will take place across multiplexes and cultural hubs across Delhi. Following the format of film festivals around the world, IFFD will also feature open-air projector screens at select iconic public locations for greater accessibility.
While the entry to the screenings is free, one must register on the official website to gain access.
Key Information
Check out the schedule and films here
📅 March 25 to March 31 2026
📍 Multiple (Check schedule for specifics)
💸 Free Entry, but registration required
🎟️ Register here