Homebound is the opening night film

Featured as the Opening Night Film, Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound is inspired by a 2020 New York Times piece by Basharat Peer. The story centers around two childhood friends from a small North Indian village who aspire to be police officers, believing it will earn them the respect they crave. As they edge closer to their dreams, their friendship is tested by increasing pressures and challenges. The film features Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa.

Festival Directors Ritu Sarin and Tenzing Sonam remarked, “We never aimed to be one of India’s leading independent festivals. Our belief that meaningful cinema deserves a space in the mountains has driven us. DIFF has flourished over 14 years, fueled by filmmakers’ passion, audience trust, and a community that reconnects yearly. That’s what adds to its significance.”

Kiran Rao masterclass

A notable attraction this year is a masterclass led by filmmaker Kiran Rao. She will discuss her cinematic experiences, the evolving landscape of independent cinema, and the importance of crafting bold, impactful narratives today.

Additionally, DIFF will continue its partnership with the Sydney Film Festival, showcasing two acclaimed Australian films and their creators:

Lesbian Space Princess, a vibrant queer sci-fi journey by Emma Hough Hobbs and Leela Varghese; and

The Wolves Always Come at Night by Gabrielle Brady, a hybrid documentary exploring displacement and resilience in Mongolia, representing Australia in the 2025 Oscars.

Films featured at the festival

Explore the lineup curated by Bina Paul, DIFF’s Programming Director.

I, The Song – Dechen Roder (Bhutan, Norway)

This film tells the story of a schoolteacher accused of being in a non-consensual video, who embarks on a quest to clear her name by finding her doppelgänger in southern Bhutan. It’s Bhutan’s entry for the 2025 Oscars.

Sabar Bonda – Rohan Parashuram Kanawade (India, Canada, UK)

This romantic drama revolves around Anand, who returns home after a family tragedy and rekindles a bond with his childhood friend Balya. Kanawade’s feature directorial debut has won the World Cinema Grand Jury Prize: Dramatic at Sundance 2025.

Kneecap – Rich Peppiatt (Ireland, UK)

Offering a wild and irreverent look at the rise of the Irish-language rap group Kneecap, this film blends political satire, music, and youthful rebellion in Belfast’s vibrant context.

Orwell 2+2=5 – Raoul Peck (United States, France)

This gripping documentary reinterprets Orwell’s *1984* for today’s age of misinformation, directed by the Oscar-nominated Raoul Peck.

Romeria – Carla Simón (Spain, Germany)

Set during a rural pilgrimage, *Romeria* offers a touching and intimate portrayal of generational transitions and women’s quiet resilience in a small Spanish town.

Cutting Through Rocks – Sara Khaki & Mohammadreza Eyni (Qatar, Chile, Iran, Canada, Netherlands, Germany, United States)

This film follows Sara Shahverdi, the first female councilmember of her Iranian village, as she empowers young girls through motorcycle training while battling traditional societal pressures.

Alaav – Prabhash Chandra (India)

Alaav provides an intimate look at Bhaveen, a 63-year-old devoted son caring for his 95-year-old mother, showcasing the emotional intricacies of caregiving.

100 Sunset – Kunsang Kyirong (Canada)

A poignant drama exploring the experiences of two young Tibetan-Canadian women in Toronto as they navigate friendship and cultural expectations.

The Love That Remains – Hlynur Pálmason (Iceland)

This haunting yet tender exploration of love and memory contrasts against Iceland’s winter landscapes, gaining acclaim on the international festival circuit after its Cannes 2025 premiere.

Songs of Forgotten Trees – Anuparna Roy (India)

Closing the festival, this film won the Orizzonti Award for Best Director at the 2025 Venice Film Festival. It narrates the story of a migrant actress in Mumbai who forms a fragile connection with a newcomer amidst urban solitude.

Andrey Tarkovsky: A Cinema Prayer – Andrey A. Tarkovsky (Russia, Italy, Sweden)

This intimate documentary about the celebrated filmmaker features rare archival footage and insights on cinema, faith, and artistic legacy, presented by Tarkovsky’s son.