2026 Film Line-Up
Complete schedule & ticket booking opens Monday, October 19
Feature Films16 films
Baththa
Madras, 1986: a timid boy locks a feared criminal in a school restroom, and an unlikely friendship begins.
Gondhal
A culturally rooted Marathi story brought to the Edmonton program.
- India’s official entry for the 99th Academy Awards
Ha Lyngkha Bneng
“HA LYNGKHA BNENG - THE ELYSIAN FIELD” is a film that illuminates the profound beauty of human connection against the backdrop of inevitable change. Set in the tranquil Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, India in 2047, the story follows Livingstone and his fellow villagers as they grapple with the intertwined forces of loss, love, and resilience.
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At its heart, “HA LYNGKHA BNENG - THE ELYSIAN FIELD” celebrates the unbreakable bonds of community. In a village now home to only six souls—reduced so drastically by the pull of urban migration—friendship becomes a lifeline, offering solace in the face of loneliness. Through shared moments of grief and longing, these characters discover the true essence of human connection, drawing strength from each other’s presence.
Nostalgia and hope intertwine as the narrative unfolds with poignant grace. Livingstone’s journey aboard a vintage bus becomes a symbolic pilgrimage—a testimony to the enduring love he holds for his late wife, Belinda. Alongside him, a group of endearing individuals each wrestles with personal dreams and desires, set against the haunting reality of dwindling village life.
Yet, in times of both triumph and adversity, these six villagers stand as beacons of resilience. Their collective spirit proves unyielding despite the uncertainties that lie ahead. Bound together by shared experiences, they weave a tapestry of hope, reminding us of timeless truths about love, loss, and the fortifying power of solidarity—even when the rest of the world beckons beyond their cherished homeland.
- Moscow IFF: Best Film, Best Director and NETPAC Award
Kok Kok Kokoook
A road accident killed a relative of a minister. Police are on lookout for a red RX100 motorcycle.
A chicken seller, Siken, has an intimate connection with his red RX100 motorcycle- a shadow that defined his existence. Siken suddenly feels threatened to be an easy prey for the police. Being on the fringes as a muslim illegal migrant, he is paranoid and decides to discard his beloved motorcycle.
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Meanwhile, a South-Sudanese migrant lady, Abebe, follows Siken everywhere wanting to have a baby with him. Siken’s eyes reminded her of her rebel lover, who is dead, and her lost country. Whereas Siken seems to have no interest in her.
Siken starts missing the bike immensely- trying whatever he can to replace the thoughts of the motorcycle in his head- failing again and again. His grief and sadness haunts him and pushes him towards an unsettling dead end. Terrified Siken distorts reality and struggles ghastly to be free.
- World Premiere, Busan IFF
- Fellini Award, Lucania Film Festival
Lagaan
- Academy Award nominee, Best Foreign Language Film
Lovers in the Blue Night
Internationally recognized independent cinema, stories from the margins.
- World Premiere, Orizzonti, 83rd Venice IFF
- 31st Busan IFF
- NETPAC Award, Best Asian Film, Venice
Manch
Nayak
Restoration series, honouring the Bengali screen icon.
- Special Jury Award, Berlin 1966
- National Film Award for Best Screenplay
Not a Hero
- Special Mention, Generation Kplus, 76th Berlinale
Romantic Affairs
In this coming-of-age film, the lead character, a young girl, representing all girls of her age, moves through the tumultuous teenage years filled with choices and experiences that shape her identity. As she seeks to understand her physical and psychological needs, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery—a journey of discovering “me”—that leads her down misguided paths. Her yearning for freedom becomes a metaphorical cage, trapping her and affecting those around her, including her parents, friends, and other individuals who try to save her. This unravels relationships and reputations along the way. The story explores themes of desire, reputation, and the complexities of growing up, ultimately highlighting the turmoil that can arise from the quest for self-exploration.
- Third Eye Asian Film Festival: Best Director, Best Actress and Jury Special Mention
- North East India Film Festival: Best Director
- New York Indian Film Festival: Official Selection
Shape of Momo
The story revolves around Bishnu and her multi-generational family of women navigating patriarchal norms, grappling with the decision to either adapt to or challenge these norms in pursuit of their goals. It is a poignant reflection on the complexities of identity and freedom within a traditional community.
- Busan IFF: Taipei Film Commission Award and Songwon Vision Award
- San Sebastián IFF
Thaai Kizhavi
A woman's right to independence within a deeply patriarchal society.
The Lost Path
A local militant group from North East India assigns Longsing to recruit members in a remote village. He meets a school teacher who opposes their activities. The group orders Longsing to kill him. He loses faith and leaves them and plans to change the path, but his dream never comes true.
- World Premiere and Jury Special Mention, 31st Kolkata IFF
Winkle Twinkle
A political activist returns to a transformed world, struggling to reconcile his ideals with modern reality.
Kolkata-born director, writer and actor, known for Chotushkone (2014), Ek Je Chhilo Raja (2018) and Vinci Da (2019).
Documentaries1 film
Headhunting to Beatboxing
- World Premiere, Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2024
Short Films6 films
Blue
“BLUE” is a powerful film that deals with domestic abuse across generations. As the narrative unfolds, it explores the lives of a man and a woman highlighting cycles of violence, silence, and resistance. Through personal growth and eventual empowerment, the characters are brought to an intense climax, breaking free from the trauma of their past and present.
Burning Earth
There is a conflict between two families of different species living on another planet. Both of them accuse each other of creating pollution and causing problems in each other’s homes. There are two astronauts from Earth who land on that planet and teach them how to live peacefully and how to solve their pollution problem. They, however, ask astronauts to save their own planet Earth before giving advice to others.
Gaanth
Mili ties a knot to remember the whereabouts of her missing jewellery box misplaced by her forgetful father leading to a not-so-quiet afternoon as they navigate forgotten memories, grief, longing, and long-buried truths, blurring the fragile line between memory and reality.
Masala Love
Masala Love, a South Asian comedy, follows Sultana Sheikh, the owner of Masala Restaurant, who receives an eviction notice from the building owner who passed away four years ago.
Seeking support from her Canadian-born son, she learns that he has left the family home and is living separately with a Caucasian romantic partner.
Determined to save the restaurant and bring her son back to the family, Sultana embarks on a mission to save the restaurant and reconnect with her son.
Mind of Innocence
Logged into a tense online briefing, legendary detective John Davis lectures a group of young police trainees on the case that defined—and broke—his career: “The Innocence Murders.” Through chilling recollections, Davis describes a brilliant, faceless chemist who operated in the city’s shadows, using vulnerable citizens as human test subjects for a deadly new drug. The killer was a ghost, always anticipating the police’s next move. But as the trainees push for answers, the digital meeting uncovers an unsettling atmosphere where the ultimate truth hits terrifyingly close to home.
The First Film
In a small town in 1960s India, where cinema is forbidden for women, a 14-year-old girl embarks on a quest to watch her first film.
- National Film Awards: Best Direction (Swarna Kamal) and Best Music (Rajat Kamal)
See you at the cinemas.
Showtimes, venues and tickets for every city are on the Festival Schedule.
View Festival Schedule2026 Film Line-Up
IFFA 2026 Official Selection
The official film lineup for the 12th India Film Festival of Alberta is currently being carefully curated. This year’s selection will bring together distinctive voices, powerful stories, and films from across cultures, languages, and regions.
The complete IFFA 2026 Official Selection will be announced soon.
Stay tuned as we reveal the films, filmmakers, and special presentations that will be part of this year’s festival.
Phule
“Phule” is a 2024 historical drama directed by Ananth Mahadevan, starring Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa as Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule. The film follows the couple’s courageous fight against caste and gender oppression, highlighting their deep bond and shared mission for social reform. Grounded in history yet emotionally resonant, Phule brings to life a powerful story of resilience, compassion, and the belief that education can transform lives.
Kadaknath
In a remote Gujarat village, a series of gruesome murders terrifies a peaceful tribal community. The villagers turn to Abhaysinh, a reputed poultry farmer believed to have mystical conflict-resolving skills, but he refuses to help, haunted by hallucinations. Tensions rise when his brother Nirav’s best friend is murdered, with suspicion falling on their notorious brother-in-law, Amarsinh. As Nirav seeks revenge and the police prove unreliable, Abhaysinh begins his own investigation—uncovering a chilling link between the murders, the village’s buried past, and his own.
Lorni: The Flaneur
Shem, portrayed by Adil Hussain, is a self-styled, out-of-work detective lingering in the small-town lethargy of Shillong. When a woman named Esther hires him to investigate the theft of a culturally significant heirloom—a coral necklace—the case becomes more than just a missing object. As he navigates the narrow alleys and vibrant streets, Shem embarks on a deeply introspective journey, confronting Shillong’s cultural complexities, racial tensions, and folklore-laden undercurrents. His exploration blurs the lines between memory, mythology, and reality, mirroring both his personal struggles and the evolving identity of the city
Hey Ram
“Hey Ram” is a 2000 Indian epic historical fiction film written, directed, and produced by Kamal Haasan, who also plays the lead role. It was made simultaneously in Tamil and Hindi, featuring Shah Rukh Khan in his Tamil debut, alongside Rani Mukerji, Hema Malini, Naseeruddin Shah (as Mahatma Gandhi), and others. The music is by the legendary Ilaiyaraaja.
Ronth
“Ronth” is a 2025 Malayalam drama directed by Shahi Kabir, starring Dileesh Pothan and Roshan Mathew as two policemen on a tense night shift. One’s been doing this for years, the other is just starting out—and over the course of a single night, both are forced to confront the choices that shape who they are. With quiet intensity and emotional honesty, Ronth explores duty, loss of faith, and what it means to hold the line when the world keeps shifting around you.
Mahavatar Narsimha
“Mahavatar Narsimha” is an animated retelling rooted in Hindu mythology, based on the Vishnu Purana, Narasimha Purana, and Shrimad Bhagavata Purana, directed by Ashwin Kumar and produced under the Mahavatar Cinematic Universe banner by Kleem Productions and Hombale Films
Mukti Bhavan
“Mukti Bhawan” is a 2016 Hindi drama directed by Shubhashish Bhutiani, starring Adil Hussain and Lalit Behl. When an aging father believes his time has come, he asks his son to take him to Varanasi to spend his final days seeking salvation. The journey brings them to a fading guesthouse for the dying, where quiet moments reveal years of unspoken pain, distant love, and the deep longing for closure. As the days pass, father and son begin to understand each other in ways they never could before. Mukti Bhawan is a tender, aching portrait of family, forgiveness, and the grace that sometimes comes only at the end.
Ishanou
“Ishanou” is a 1990 Manipuri drama directed by Aribam Syam Sharma, starring Anoubam Kiranmala and Kangabam Tomba. It tells the story of a woman whose quiet family life changes when she is chosen to become a priestess in the sacred Lai Haraoba ritual. Following her journey, the film captures both the beauty of tradition and the pain of leaving loved ones behind. Its honest and deeply rooted portrayal of Manipuri culture broke new ground, showing a side of India rarely seen on screen. Making its premiere at Cannes, Ishanou was the first to bring Manipuri art to audiences worldwide.
Goodday Goodacha
“Godday Godday Chaa” is a heartwarming Punjabi family comedy-drama set in rural Punjab during the 1980s and 1990s. Directed by Vijay Kumar Arora, written by Jagdeep Sidhu, and featuring Sonam Bajwa, Tania, Gitaj Bindrakhia, and Gurjazz in pivotal roles—it delivers both laughter and social commentary.
Rapture
“Rapture” (2023), directed by Dominic Sangma, is a powerful Garo-language drama that shows how fear and superstition slowly spread in a remote mountain village. Through poetic storytelling, the film reveals the subtle ways anxiety spreads, changing relationships within the community. At its core, Rapture explores the fragile boundary between tradition and fear, and the loss of innocence when a community begins to turn inward. Told through the eyes of a young child, the film offers a poignant reflection on trust, belonging, and the costs of living in uncertainty
Boong
“Boong” is a Manipuri coming-of-age drama, directed by Lakshmipriya Devi and produced by Farhan Aktar. It follows Boong and his friend Sanamatum as they embark on a journey to bring his family together again, giving the audience both an entertaining and meaningful snapshot of Manipur. Taking place during a turbulent time in the state, this lighthearted and whimsical film also carries serious undertones, exploring themes of political instability and cultural discrimination within India. As the film goes on, the disconnect between Boong’s childish perspective in a world of harsh realities makes for a poignant reflection on the effect of conflict on youth and innocence
Feminist Fathima
“Feminist Fathima” is a social drama directed by Fasil Muhammed, following the life of Fathima in her journey to challenge societal expectations and cultural norms, asserting her independence and control over her own life. Starring Shamla Hamza, Kumar Sunil, and Viji Viswanath, this film raises important questions of equality and personal empowerment, outlining the role that financial independence can play in changing the trajectory of people’s lives. The film also reflects on the fickle nature of traditions and superstitions, and how they can turn into tools of control when left unchecked.
Gunaa
“Gunaa” is a 1991 Tamil classic directed by Santhana Bharathi, taking the audience on a deeply emotional journey through the mind of a man whose love is both intense and fragile. Kamal Haasan delivers a mesmerizing performance as Gunaa, a character shaped by loneliness and a yearning for connection. Set against hauntingly beautiful landscapes, the film explores the fine line between love and obsession, showing how the search for belonging can lead to both hope and heartbreak. It’s a powerful story about the human need to be seen and loved for who we truly are.
Nayagan
Directed by Mani Ratnam and starring Kamal Haasan, “Nayagan” tells the story of Velu Naicker’s rise from Chennai’s slums to a powerful underworld figure. The film explores loyalty, justice, and moral complexity, offering a nuanced look at survival and power. Widely praised for its emotional depth and realism, Nayagan remains a landmark in Indian cinema. Its gripping narrative and nuanced characters show the difficult choices faced in a world where the line between right and wrong is often blurred. The film’s impact continues to influence generations of filmmakers and audiences alike.
Koro Gochongni
Directed by Pranami Koch, “Koro Gochongni” offers a sensitive and intimate look at life in a small Assamese village where tradition and change coexist uneasily. Through richly developed characters and thoughtful storytelling, the film explores the personal and collective struggles of those trying to preserve their identity while adapting to a rapidly changing world. It’s a quiet, reflective meditation on belonging and the enduring strength of community bonds.
Calorie
Directed by Eisha Marjara, “Calorie” is a tense and gripping thriller that explores the complexities of human desire, guilt, and survival. Set mostly in confined spaces, the film intensifies as its characters confront their darkest fears and impulses. Through sharp storytelling and compelling performances, Calorie delves into how desperation and temptation can push people to unexpected extremes. Exploring morality and the extent to which people will go for those they care about, this film provides an important perspective on the human psyche
Sitaare Zameen Par
Sitaare Zameen Par (2025), directed by R. S. Prasanna and starring Aamir Khan, tells the touching story of a man who takes on coaching a basketball team of neurodivergent adults at a low point in his life. Although starting out as a challenge, his journey becomes an experience of empathy and growth for everyone involved. The film beautifully shows how acceptance and friendship can come from unexpected places. Praised for its heartfelt story and genuine performances, Sitaare Zameen Par moved audiences and sparked important talks about inclusion. Its unique release helped spread its message of hope and diversity far and wide.
