Boman Irani's Directorial Debut Shines at International Film Festival Delhi
A New Chapter for Boman Irani
The audience at the International Film Festival Delhi erupted in applause as Boman Irani took the stage, marking a significant moment not only as a beloved actor but also as a filmmaker embarking on a new creative journey.
His directorial debut, The Mehta Boys, which he also produced and co-wrote, received an enthusiastic response during its screening, culminating in a standing ovation from the audience.
Exploring Father-Son Dynamics
At its core, The Mehta Boys presents a poignant and complex depiction of a father-son relationship marked by emotional distance and unresolved feelings.
Masterclass on Screenwriting
In conjunction with the film screening, Irani hosted a masterclass dedicated to the art of screenwriting, sharing invaluable insights on crafting emotionally impactful narratives. Drawing from his extensive career—from scriptwriting to acting and now directing—he shared personal anecdotes to illustrate his creative process, helping attendees grasp the nuances of structure, character development, and the element of surprise in storytelling.
Manoj Bajpayee Discusses AI and Rights
On Friday, Manoj Bajpayee participated in the ongoing International Film Festival of Delhi (IFFD) 2026, where he addressed the increasing influence of artificial intelligence in the film industry and the significance of personality rights.
During his media interaction at the festival, the 'Family Man' star emphasized that any utilization of an artist's work or identity should be accompanied by appropriate compensation and acknowledgment of their hard work. He stated, "If someone uses our work, they must pay us. If anything related to us is used, they will have to pay for it. I have been working as an actor for 32 years, so you build your own credibility, and if someone uses it, they must pay for it as a right."
Nikhil Advani on Original Storytelling
Director Nikhil Advani also attended IFFD 2026, where he discussed the importance of storytelling, originality, and the responsibilities of filmmakers in contemporary cinema.
Speaking on the festival's third day, Advani highlighted the necessity for filmmakers to introduce innovative concepts. He remarked, "It is our job to tell the public that this is what they should want. It is our job to be original. It is our job to tell the tough story. It is our job to break the formulas."
Festival Highlights
The week-long festival, taking place from March 25 to 31, features a variety of screenings, discussions, and industry events across multiple venues in New Delhi, bringing together filmmakers, industry experts, and audiences from around the world.