The National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) continues to strengthen India’s independent cinema footprint globally, with ‘Ustad Bantoo’ gearing up for its world premiere at the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) 2026. Considered one of the most respected platforms for auteur-driven and independent films, IFFR’s selection marks a major milestone for the project and its makers.

According to a press release issued by NFDC, the film’s international journey has been shaped through the corporation’s curated development and market initiatives, most notably the Work in Progress Lab and its recommendation at NFDC Waves Film Bazaar 2025. Both platforms are part of NFDC’s flagship film market ecosystem, held annually alongside the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.

During its participation in the Work in Progress Lab, ‘Ustad Bantoo’ underwent an intensive development phase, benefiting from mentorship and feedback from an eminent panel of international film professionals. The process helped sharpen the film’s narrative structure, cinematic language and post-production strategy, positioning it more effectively for the global festival circuit.

Its recommendation at NFDC Waves Film Bazaar 2025 further boosted the film’s international visibility. As South Asia’s leading film market, the Bazaar plays a critical role in connecting Indian filmmakers with global producers, festival programmers, sales agents and funding bodies, creating pathways for international collaboration and market access.

Adding to its growing recognition, ‘Ustad Bantoo’ has also received notable industry honours, including the Red Sea Fund Cash Award and the Prasad Corporation Pvt Ltd Post-Production Award. These accolades reflect strong international confidence in the film’s creative vision and production quality.

Commenting on the achievement, NFDC Managing Director Prakash Magdum said the film’s journey exemplifies the organisation’s long-term commitment to nurturing Indian stories through structured development and market platforms. He noted that NFDC’s focus remains on helping filmmakers refine their work while building meaningful connections within the global film ecosystem, and described the IFFR 2026 selection as a proud moment for Indian cinema.

The selection of ‘Ustad Bantoo’ at the International Film Festival Rotterdam 2026 underlines the tangible impact of NFDC’s development-to-distribution approach in guiding Indian projects towards international recognition. Through initiatives such as the Work in Progress Lab and NFDC Waves Film Bazaar, held in conjunction with IFFI, the corporation continues to ensure that diverse and compelling voices from India find a strong and sustained presence on the world cinema stage.