Short film ‘Gudgudi’ brings hope and self-acceptance at MIFF 2026 premiere

MUMBAI: The Hindi short film Gudgudi made its Asia premiere at the 19th Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF 2026) on Friday, offering audiences a quietly emotional story centred on hope, self-acceptance and inner healing.

The 21-minute short marks the directorial debut of Manisha Makwana and was screened as part of the festival’s gala showcase. The cast and crew, including producer Harsh Patel, lead actors Ahsaas Channa and Hridaansh Parekh, along with the wider team, were felicitated by NFDC at the premiere.

Ahead of the screening, Makwana and Patel interacted with the media, reflecting on the film’s themes and creative journey. Speaking about the title, Makwana said Gudgudi represents a feeling of joy and emotional warmth. “The film concludes with the child character Aarav saying he feels ‘gudgudi’ in his heart. That emotion captures the essence of the story,” she said.

The film follows Ritu, a young woman working as a mascot at an amusement park, who struggles with self-worth while balancing personal responsibilities. Her life begins to shift when she forms an unexpected bond with a child, Aarav, who sees beyond her costume and helps her reconnect with her inner self.

Makwana uses the mascot costume as a metaphor for emotional concealment, with Ritu’s inner turmoil reflected through layered visual storytelling. The narrative gradually moves towards self-acceptance as Ritu learns to confront her vulnerabilities and ultimately sheds her emotional mask.

Calling the project deeply personal, Makwana said the story draws from her own experiences and is rooted in the idea that emotional burdens can be gently released through understanding and connection. “The film leaves the audience with hope and encourages people to open up to their loved ones,” she said.

Producer Harsh Patel underlined the film’s focus on mental well-being, saying emotional health begins with honest conversations and the courage to share one’s struggles with trusted people.

Ahsaas Channa plays the lead role of Ritu, with Makwana revealing that the character was written keeping the actor in mind. Hridaansh Parekh plays Aarav, the emotional anchor of the story whose perspective helps Ritu rediscover her sense of self.

The film also reflects broader concerns around mental health in a digitally driven world, exploring how people increasingly navigate pressure between online identities and real-life emotions.

Shot at Bal Vatika Park in Ahmedabad, Gudgudi has already begun making its presence felt on the international festival circuit, including a screening at the Cannes Film Festival’s Short Film Corner.

With its understated storytelling and focus on emotional honesty, Gudgudi closes on an open note, inviting viewers to rediscover their own sense of “gudgudi”, a feeling of quiet hope and joy.