‘Gondhal’ Director Says International Approach Helped Secure Oscar Entry

MUMBAI-Marathi filmmaker Santosh Davakhar believes the international approach of his film ‘Gondhal’ played an important role in its selection as India’s official entry for the Oscars, amid competition from 32 other films, including the Ranveer Singh-starrer ‘Dhurandhar’.

“Dhurandhar 1, Dhurandhar 2, Dhurandhar: The Revenge and other films are good. Main Wapas Aunga, Hug, these are really good films, but at the international level, the approach of the film is completely different, and if you want to compete there, your film should be made with that approach,” he said.

Davakhar also acknowledged the popularity of ‘Dhurandhar’, saying the film has connected strongly with audiences.

“When we were kids, we grew up watching these films. And this year, there is a film like Dhurandhar, which has made a place in people’s hearts. And there were many other films which were in the competition,” he said.

Rather than viewing the selection as one film defeating another, Davakhar said he sees ‘Gondhal’ as representing all the films that were part of the selection process.

Davakhar also described the film’s raw and simple treatment as one of its strengths.

“The movie is very raw and that is its quality. Simplicity is its quality and that is why it is feeling like the most impressive thriller film,” he said.

The filmmaker had earlier spoken about how his experiences at international film festivals made him conscious of the perception that Indian films are often associated with subjects such as poverty and casteism. That experience prompted him to explore another side of India through ‘Gondhal’.

‘Gondhal’ has been selected as India’s official entry for the Oscars. The Marathi thriller blends mystery and thriller elements with Indian rituals and cultural traditions.

The film stars Kishor Kadam, Ishita Deshmukh, Yogesh Sohoni, Nishad Bhoir, Anuj Prabhu, Suresh Vishwakarma and Vitthal Kale. (IANS)