International Film Festival of Delhi 2026 Kicks Off with Star-Studded Inauguration
Star-Studded Opening of IFFD 2026
The International Film Festival of Delhi (IFFD) 2026 commenced at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta inaugurated the event on March 25, 2026, with a glamorous red carpet ceremony attended by notable personalities such as Hema Malini and Sharmila Tagore. The festival opened to a packed audience, setting an energetic tone for the days ahead. Alongside the legends, contemporary stars like Kangana Ranaut, Vicky Kaushal, and Prosenjit Chatterjee were also present. During media interactions, Vicky, Kangana, and Vivek Oberoi expressed their admiration for the film Dhurandhar 2, which is performing exceptionally well at the box office.
Stars Celebrate Dhurandhar 2 at IFFD 2026
Vicky Kaushal, who recently garnered acclaim for his role in Chhaava, praised the IFFD as a commendable initiative by the Delhi government to honor both Indian and international cinema. He expressed his eagerness to watch Dhurandhar 2 in theaters, sharing his excitement for the sequel after enjoying the first installment. He noted the film's popularity among audiences.
#WATCH | Delhi: At the International Film Festival Delhi 2026, Actor Vicky Kaushal says, "It feels great that we are organising a film festival in Delhi. We often travel to festivals around the world, but now it’s time for the world to come to us. This is a very good initiative,… pic.twitter.com/WEUjXGqcKS
— News Media (@NewsMedia) March 25, 2026
Kangana Ranaut, also a Member of Parliament, highlighted that the festival will run until March 31. She commended the Delhi government for fulfilling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for promoting art and culture. Regarding Dhurandhar 2, she remarked, “Films like Dhurandhar embody the essence of a new India, and we need more platforms to showcase this vision.”
#WATCH | Delhi: At the International Film Festival Delhi 2026, Lok Sabha MP and Actress Kangana Ranaut says, "It's a grand event. Films have come not only from across India but also from abroad, and the festival will continue until March 31. The Delhi government has taken this… pic.twitter.com/EpM5TpH4jz
— News Media (@NewsMedia) March 25, 2026
Shweta Basu Prasad, known for her role in The Tashkent Files, emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of women in cinema, including filmmakers, designers, and writers. She believes it is crucial to celebrate their achievements just as contemporary women in Indian cinema are honored.
#WATCH | Delhi: At the International Film Festival Delhi 2026, Actress Shweta Basu Prasad says, "... Women Filmmakers, designers, thinkers, writers, actors, and creators—all of them have shaped cinema in their own way. I believe it’s very important to celebrate their… pic.twitter.com/4gaS9lO6zO
— News Media (@NewsMedia) March 25, 2026
Bengali actor Prosenjit Chatterjee remarked that IFFD 2026 will serve as a platform for emerging talents, providing them with hope in the competitive entertainment industry.
#WATCH | Delhi: At the International Film Festival Delhi 2026, Actor Prosenjit Chatterjee says, "... We are very glad, and this will help young talents. I think it’s not just about the films—you can see good films everywhere nowadays. What really matters are the workshops and… pic.twitter.com/3G0uAUtOHL
— News Media (@NewsMedia) March 25, 2026
Vivek Oberoi shared that the team behind Dhurandhar 2 and director Aditya Dhar have successfully showcased India's narrative on a global stage, highlighting the growing recognition of Indian storytelling worldwide.
Details About IFFD 2026
The festival will conclude on March 31. On its opening day, esteemed figures such as Sharmila Tagore, Dharmendra, and Nandamuri Balakrishna were honored with Lifetime Achievement Awards for their significant contributions to Indian cinema. CM Rekha Gupta emphasized that cinema has the ability to inspire, connect, and narrate stories that resonate with people's dreams. The festival kicked off with the screening of Sirat, directed by Oliver Laxe. Stay tuned for further updates!