Delhi will host its first international film festival from March 25 to March 31, 2026, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced on Tuesday. The week-long event will be titled International Film Festival Delhi (IFFD) 2026 and will feature more than 125 Indian and international films.
The curtain raiser of the festival was unveiled on February 25, 2026, at the Delhi Secretariat, in the presence of Cabinet Minister Kapil Mishra.
Calling the initiative historic, CM Gupta said the festival marks a significant step toward establishing Delhi as a global cultural and cinematic centre.
Celebrating Delhi’s Creative and Cultural Strength
Rekha Gupta described IFFD as more than just a film festival, calling it a celebration of Delhi’s creative strength, cultural heritage, and modern outlook.
She said the event will provide local filmmakers and technicians international exposure, while fostering dialogue with global cinema professionals. The festival will be held across major venues in the capital, including Bharat Mandapam.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the festival’s role in film tourism, talent development, AVGC industries, and job creation, noting its alignment with the Delhi Government’s Film Policy.
A New Identity for Delhi as India’s Cinematic Capital
According to CM Gupta, initiatives such as single-window clearances, production support, and industry facilitation are already making Delhi an attractive filming destination. She described IFFD as a decisive step toward giving Delhi a new identity as India’s cinematic capital.
She expressed confidence that the festival will bring fresh momentum to the city’s cultural ecosystem and place Delhi firmly on the global cultural map.
Over 125 Films, Workshops, and Industry Events
The government-led festival is being organised by the Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation.
Alongside film screenings, the festival will feature:
- Gala premieres and special screenings
- Masterclasses and workshops
- Industry panel discussions and dialogues
- Cultural performances and live events
The programme aims to strengthen film tourism, talent development, industry collaboration, and the creative economy.
International Platform for Young Talent
Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra said that Delhi is emerging as a creative capital on the global stage under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and CM Rekha Gupta.
He added that renowned filmmakers, actors, directors, and technical experts from India and abroad will participate. The festival will provide young creators an international platform, promote new cinematic technologies, and boost tourism and employment.
Key Attractions of IFFD 2026
Major highlights of the festival include:
- Star-studded gala premieres and special screenings
- Showcases for digital and emerging cinema
- CineXchange Film Market and Cineverse Expo for networking and investment
- Masterclasses by global cinema experts
- Cultural evenings and live performances
The festival will also focus on film tourism, creative economy growth, and public access to global cinema, creating a bridge between art, culture, and industry.