Dharamshala International Film Festival 2025 set to open with Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound

The 14th edition of the Dharamshala International Film Festival (DIFF) is scheduled to take place from October 30 to November 2 at the Tibetan Children’s Village in Upper Dharamshala, the organisers announced on Wednesday.

Regarded as one of India’s premier platforms for independent cinema, DIFF 2025 will open with filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan’s much-anticipated drama Homebound , featuring Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa. The film, which has been selected to represent India at the Oscars 2026, is expected to set a high bar for the festival.

In addition to showcasing Indian cinema, the festival will present a diverse international lineup, including Australian entries Lesbian Space Princess and The Wolves Always Come at Night , the latter being Australia’s official submission for the Academy Awards.

With a focus on bold storytelling and cinematic innovation, DIFF continues to attract filmmakers and audiences from around the world, reinforcing its reputation as a hub for independent and thought-provoking cinema.