DIFF 2024 Unveils Star-Studded Lineup
The Dharamshala International Film Festival (DIFF)—a flagship event for indie cinema in India—will kick off its 2024 edition (November 2–6) with the Oscar-contending drama Homebound and close with the Venice-winning documentary Songs of Forgotten Trees. The festival, set against the backdrop of the Himalayas, promises a vibrant mix of global storytelling and regional voices.
Opening Night: Homebound – India’s Oscar Hope
Directed by National Award winner Karan Mahajan, Homebound (India’s official 2025 Oscar entry) is a family drama set in Himachal Pradesh, starring Shefali Shah and Jaideep Ahlawat. The film’s themes of fractured relationships and ancestral roots align with DIFF’s focus on intimate narratives.
Ritu Sarin, DIFF co-founder, praised Homebound as “a cinematic gem that mirrors universal struggles of belonging.” The opening night will feature a Q&A with the cast and crew.
Closing Night: Venice Winner Songs of Forgotten Trees
Acclaimed filmmaker Ananya Bhattacharya’s eco-documentary, which won Best Documentary at Venice, highlights indigenous communities in the Amazon and Northeast India. The closing ceremony will include a live folk music performance by artists featured in the film.
DIFF 2024 Highlights
- 80+ films from 30 countries, including Cannes and Sundance winners.
- Notable screenings: China’s The Last Tea, India’s Shadows of the Silent Valley, and Iran’s feminist drama Midnight Monologues.
- Industry sessions with Oscar-nominated Rajeev Ravi and Sundance winner Payal Kapadia.
Why DIFF Stands Out
DIFF distinguishes itself by prioritizing independent and regional cinema over mainstream Bollywood fare. Its Himalayan location fosters deep discussions on film as a tool for social change.
Tickets for DIFF 2024 are now live on [official website].
