Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival opens submissions, signals focus on independent and short-format cinema

Festival organisers say upcoming edition will expand opportunities for emerging filmmakers while continuing recognition of mainstream Indian cinema

Mumbai, February 7:
The Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival (DPIFF) has opened submissions for its upcoming edition, marking the start of preparations for what organisers describe as a renewed focus on independent cinema, short films and emerging storytellers alongside mainstream film and television awards.

The festival, held annually in Mumbai, has invited entries across multiple categories, including feature films, short films, web series and television content. According to organisers, the submission window will remain open through the year, with nominations to be evaluated by an independent jury panel ahead of the final awards ceremony.

In a statement issued by the festival secretariat, DPIFF said the forthcoming edition aims to “strengthen its role as a platform that bridges established cinema with new-age creators,” reflecting shifts underway in India’s film and content ecosystem.

Expanding emphasis on short films

One of the notable developments this year is the structured emphasis on short films, a format that has seen growing traction due to lower production costs, digital-first audiences and increasing acceptance at international film festivals.

Festival officials said shortlisted short films will compete for jury recognition and cash awards, with final selections to be announced closer to the event. Films produced in recent years and meeting standard technical and language requirements are eligible for submission.

“Short-format storytelling has become a serious creative medium, not a stepping stone,” said Abhishek Mishra, chief executive officer of DPIFF. “Our intention is to provide visibility and institutional recognition to filmmakers who may not yet have access to large studios or distribution networks.”

Industry observers note that short films and web-based narratives have emerged as important entry points for first-time filmmakers, particularly in regional languages, documentary storytelling and socially themed cinema.

Background and positioning

Established in the early 2010s and formally launched as an annual awards platform in 2016, DPIFF positions itself as an independent film festival that commemorates the legacy of Dhundiraj Govind Phalke, widely regarded as the father of Indian cinema. Over the years, the festival has recognised work across Hindi and regional cinema, television and digital content.

Past editions have featured awards for mainstream films and performances, alongside honours for technical categories and emerging talent. The festival’s annual awards ceremony, typically held in Mumbai, has drawn participation from actors, filmmakers and industry professionals from across the country.

According to data shared by the organisers, recent editions have seen an increase in submissions from regional filmmakers and independent producers, reflecting broader decentralisation within the Indian film industry.

Industry context

The renewed focus on diverse formats comes at a time when India’s film and content landscape is undergoing rapid change. Streaming platforms have expanded demand for shorter and experimental narratives, while film festivals are increasingly seen as gateways for discovery rather than solely celebratory events.

A senior film producer, who has previously served on festival juries and requested anonymity, said such platforms play an important role if backed by “transparent selection processes and credible jury systems.”

“For independent filmmakers, recognition at a festival can determine future funding and visibility,” the producer said. “What matters is consistency, clarity of criteria and professional curation.”

Looking ahead

Festival organisers said further details regarding jury members, screening schedules and award dates will be announced in the coming months. The final awards ceremony is expected to be held in Mumbai, continuing the festival’s tradition of positioning the city as a focal point of Indian cinema.

As submissions begin, the upcoming edition will be closely watched for how effectively DPIFF balances mainstream recognition with its stated aim of nurturing new voices. In an industry increasingly defined by digital disruption and regional diversity, the festival’s approach this year could influence how independent and short-format cinema is positioned within India’s broader cultural conversation.