NYIFF 2026 TO SHOWCASE DIVERSE INDIAN FILMS LINEUP
- Arzoo B. Singh
- Apr 21
- 2 min read
NYIFF 2026 to Showcase BAFTA-Winning ‘Boong’, 4K Restored ‘Sholay’ and Diverse Indian Cinema Lineup.
New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF) is North America’s longest-running festival dedicated to Indian independent cinema. Taking place from May 28 to 31 the 2026 edition will present films across 15 languages, highlighting the growing prominence of regional storytelling in contemporary Indian cinema.
Presented by the Indo-American Arts Council (IAAC), this year’s festival lineup comprises 19 narrative features, four documentary features, and 27 short films across both narrative and documentary categories. The selection also includes several world premieres along with a special LGBTQ shorts program.
The festival will open with a special screening of Boong, the Manipuri film that made history earlier this year by winning the BAFTA award in the Best Children’s and Family Film category.The recognition further highlighted the growing global visibility of regional Indian cinema. Director Laksmipriya Devi is expected to attend the premiere on May 29.
IAAC Chairman Nirmal Mattoo said the New York Indian Film Festival stands as a powerful cultural bridge. “The 2026 lineup and nominations reaffirm our commitment to showcasing the richness, diversity, and artistic excellence of Indian cinema on an international stage."
This year's nominations are led by Baksho Bondi (Shadowbox), Flowers of Acacia, Romantic Affairs, Ha Lyngkha Bneng (The Elysian Field), and Victoria, which dominate the best film race. "This year's nominated films represent the range and depth of storytelling in India today. From human dramas to comedies, and narratives that reflect the angst of Millennials and Gen Z, these works reflect a cinema that is both rooted and globally resonant." said Festival Director Aseem Chhabra.
The festival will also present a special screening of Farhan Akhtar’s Dil Chahta Hai (2001), marking its 25th anniversary, along with the 4K restored version of Sholay, which completed 50 years in 2025. It will conclude with the screening of Marathi film Tighee, and the Punjabi film Flowers of Acacia will be the centrepiece presentation.
IAAC said in a statement that NYIFF 2026 continues its dual mission of championing emerging voices while honouring cinematic excellence, reinforcing its position as a key global platform for Indian Independent Cinema.
Executive Director of IAAC Suman Gollamudi said NYIFF continues to serve as a critical launchpad for independent filmmakers on the global stage and remains committed to amplifying distinctive voices across Indian cinema.
