Hindi
Tale of Rising Rani: A nuanced Indian film screened at Cannes marketplace
Mumbai: In the midst of the Cannes Film Festival’s dazzle, the Cannes Marketplace showcased a distinctive Indian film this year. “Tale of Rising Rani,” a Stripes Entertainment production, weaves an engaging tale set against the backdrop of rural India.
Directed by Prakash Saini, produced by Geeta and Ashok Kumar Sharma with executive producer Kunal Rohra, “Tale of Rising Rani” takes audiences on a journey into the heart of Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, where the Brij language resonates with the rhythm of daily life. Featuring a talented ensemble cast including Stuti Agrawal, Anju Gaur, Anant Saraswat, and Anil Yadav, the film presents a true story of the transformation of a young but exceptionally resilient girl called Rani.
“The film is a story of overcoming obstacles and challenging societal norms,” explained director Prakash Saini. “Through the character of Rani, we explore themes of friendship, courage, and the pursuit of one’s destiny. It’s a narrative that I believe will resonate with audiences worldwide. My film is inspired by a true story that is why I feel compelled to tell this story.”
The narrative chronicles Rani, whose dreams are curtailed by her conservative upbringing. Facing pressure from her father to wed post-school, she becomes intertwined with her friend Rinki’s plight, who is burdened by the village’s regressive customs. Resolute in her quest for autonomy, Rani sets out on a path of self-realization and defiance, challenging the status quo. The film will be released soon this year.
Director Saini reflects, “Presenting our work to an international audience at Cannes was a phenomenal chance to initiate dialogues on its central issues. The film’s unique plot and genuine depiction of a girl’s struggle against traditional norms struck a chord with many viewers.”
The Cannes Film Festival this year honours the variety and vibrancy of Indian filmmaking, with a notable lineup of seven films linked to India, heralding a significant year for the nation’s cinema at the festival.
Hindi
MIFF 2026 to return to Mumbai; film entries open till April 12
19th edition to host WAVES Doc Bazaar, spotlighting global documentary talent
MUMBAI: The 19th edition of the Mumbai International Film Festival 2026 is set to take place from June 15 to 21 at the NFDC Complex, with film submissions currently open and the deadline fast approaching on April 12.
Organised by the National Film Development Corporation under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the biennial festival remains one of South Asia’s most prominent platforms for documentary, short fiction and animation films.
Filmmakers, producers and content creators from across the globe have been invited to submit entries via the Film Freeway platform for the Competition Section. Offline submissions will not be accepted, reinforcing a fully digital entry process.
MIFF 2026 continues to sweeten the deal with a robust awards pool of Rs 55 lakh. The coveted Golden Conch for Best Documentary carries a top prize of Rs 10 lakh, alongside multiple awards across categories, making it one of the most lucrative non-feature film festivals in the region.
A key highlight this year will be the second edition of the WAVES Doc Bazaar, scheduled from June 16 to 18 alongside the festival. Designed as a hub for collaboration, the Doc Bazaar will feature a co-production market, viewing rooms and a work-in-progress lab, bringing together global buyers, sellers and creators under one roof.
Since its inception in 1990, MIFF has built a reputation as a serious showcase for non-feature cinema, drawing participation from filmmakers worldwide. The previous edition saw over 350 films from more than 30 countries, underlining its growing international footprint.
With submissions closing soon and preparations underway, MIFF 2026 is shaping up to be a vibrant meeting point for storytelling, collaboration and cinematic craft, offering filmmakers both a stage and a springboard.
