Gondhal pooja: Marathi ritual behind Oscar pick

India's Film Federation announced on Friday that Marathi film Gondhal will represent the nation at the 99th Academy Awards. The 2025 release, directed by Santosh Davakhar, has garnered critical acclaim. In an interview with Hindustan Times, Davakhar expressed a sense of pride akin to participating in the Olympics, crediting his team and family for the success.

Gondhal, he stated, was crafted to meet international standards, aiming to showcase India's rich heritage and culture beyond the usual narratives of poverty and casteism often seen at film festivals like Cannes. The director disclosed that the film will soon be available in Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada, urging viewers to experience it in theaters rather than on OTT platforms, describing it as a unique cinematic experience.

Davakhar also unveiled that preparations for the Oscar campaign are underway, including hiring a social media team from Finland and media PR from Los Angeles, each with a proven track record in securing nominations. "It's a big win for regional cinema," he remarked, highlighting the historical significance of a Marathi film vying for an Oscar after an 11-year gap.