International Film Festival Delhi (IFFD): Lights, camera… Delhi is ready to steal the spotlight! The capital city is buzzing with filmi whispers, starry dreams, and big global ambitions as it prepares for its very own international film festival. Yes, the kind we usually see in Cannes or Toronto is finally coming to Delhi, and the excitement is already spilling onto social media, film circles, and coffee-table gossip alike.
Rekha Gupta, the Chief Minister dropped the big reveal on X, calling it a “historic milestone” for the capital.
A historic milestone for our capital!
We are proud to announce Delhi’s first-ever International Film Festival Delhi (IFFD) With 125+ films, expert masterclasses, a dedicated film market.
Delhi is set to become a global cinematic hub.
25–31 March 2026 | Bharat Mandapam pic.twitter.com/Nzg16NSLVz
— Rekha Gupta (@gupta_rekha) February 25, 2026
Delhi’s big film moment begins in March
New Delhi is gearing up for a full-on cinematic celebration as the inaugural International Film Festival Delhi (IFFD) kicks off from March 25 to March 31, 2026. For one whole week, the city will breathe films, talk films, and most importantly, watch films from around the world.
The scale is much bigger and far more glamorous. The opening and closing ceremonies will unfold at Bharat Mandapam.
125+ films, one city, many stories
The festival is not just about glitz and glamour. The heart of IFFD lies in its carefully curated film line-up. Over 125 films will be screened. This will bring together rich mix of international cinema and Indian storytelling.
Here’s how the film mix is designed. 30% International titles from five countries, 40% Hindi cinema representing mainstream Indian films and 30% Regional Indian films celebrating linguistic and cultural diversity.
But that’s not all. Special sections are being created for patriotic films, spiritual cinema, and children’s movies.
Free screenings for the public? Yes, really!
One of the most exciting parts of IFFD is that all screenings will be free for the public. Yes, zero ticket cost! But entry will be through prior registration, so film lovers will need to plan ahead.
While Bharat Mandapam will act as the main hub, screenings will also take place at multiple multiplexes and cultural venues across Delhi. This means the entire city will slowly turn into one giant film zone.
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Officials are also planning open-air projector screenings at iconic public locations. Imagine watching a film under Delhi night sky with crowd of cinema lovers. Pure movie magic!
Gala nights and big performances
Now let’s talk about glam factor because no film festival is complete without stars and sparkle. The opening ceremony is expected to be a star-studded affair, with live performances by major film stars. Names are still under wraps.
The closing ceremony will be equally grand, featuring musical acts and an awards ceremony. National cinema icons and distinguished film personalities from Delhi will be honoured. One special Lifetime Achievement award will also be there, and guess what? The tribute to the winner will be shown through specially produced 4K films.
A complete film ecosystem
The week-long event will include masterclasses and workshops led by acclaimed directors and actors. Topics will range from VFX and sound design to the basics of filmmaking.
There will also be a Film Bazaar and Tech Expo. This space is for serious film business: co-production deals, distribution tie-ups, and networking between producers and creators.
Alongside, visitors will get to explore the latest innovations in AR, VR, gaming, and OTT technologies. It’s like a playground for film and tech lovers.
Another major highlight will be script labs and pitching forums. These will give emerging filmmakers a direct chance to present their ideas to producers and investors.