Niteen Subhash Yeola, left, the Consul General of India in Durban, left, with AB Moosa, the head of the Avalon Group, during the unveiling of the Indian Film Festival 2026 poster during a media launch at the consulate offices in Durban on Friday.
Image: Rajesh Jantilal
Durban is set to become a hub for film lovers as the Durban Indian Film Festival 2026 prepares to unfold from March 26 to 28 at Suncoast CineCentre.
The festival is being organised by the Consulate General of India in Durban in collaboration with Suncoast CineCentre, and supported by Zee South Africa and the National Film Development Corporation.
In a statement by the Indian Consulate in Durban, the festival promises to showcase the rich tapestry of Indian cinema, while fortifying cultural ties between India and South Africa.
An array of critically-acclaimed films, spanning multiple Indian languages, will provide audiences an opportunity to experience the vibrancy of Indian storytelling on the big screen.
Rani Mukherji stars in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway, an emotional drama inspired by a true story that narrates a mother’s courageous pursuit to reunite with her children.
Image: Supplied
The line-up features must-see titles such as Vikram, a high-energy Tamil action-thriller; Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway, an emotional drama inspired by a true story that narrates a mother’s courageous pursuit to reunite with her children; and the Hindi comedy-drama Munna Bhai MBBS, which tells the tale of an unconventional medical student redefining compassion in health care.
The festival will also screen Lage Raho Munna Bhai, the sequel that revives Mahatma Gandhi's principles for today’s society; and Hellaro, an award-winning Gujarati film celebrating women's empowerment through the cultural tradition of garba, among others.
In a unique offering, Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway will be presented in a specially-dubbed isiZulu version, ensuring accessibility for local audiences. The remaining films will be shown in their original languages with English subtitles, appealing to a diverse demographic eager to engage with the narratives.
The opening ceremony on March 26 promises to be a star-studded affair. According to the consulate, it will feature prominent personalities from the Indian film industry alongside celebrated South African celebrities.
Beyond film screenings, attendees can participate in film-making workshops, interactive sessions, competitions and discussions.
Entry to the festival is free. However, prior registration is required on a first-come, first-served basis.