The National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) has achieved a major international milestone as the indie feature ‘Ustad Bantoo’ has been selected for its world premiere at the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) 2026. Scheduled to screen in the prestigious Harbour strand, the film represents the rising global influence of South Asian independent cinema.

Directed by debutant Arsh Jain, the film’s selection at IFFR—a top-tier platform for auteur-driven cinema—highlights the success of NFDC’s structured development programs.

The journey of Ustad Bantoo began within the NFDC ecosystem. The project was a standout participant in the Work-in-Progress (WIP) Lab and was officially recommended at NFDC Waves Film Bazaar 2025 in Goa.

During the WIP Lab, the film received critical mentorship from an international panel of experts, including editors and festival programmers. This phase was crucial in refining the film’s “dreamlike psychodrama” narrative and cinematic language, making it ready for a global audience.

Before its premiere announcement, Ustad Bantoo had already garnered significant industry recognition:

• Red Sea Fund Cash Award: A $5,000 prize shared with the project Azhi.
• Prasad Corporation Award: Post-production support to ensure high technical standards.

The film tells the story of Bantoo (played by Kashi Kumar Dubey), a modest trumpet player in a Delhi wedding band. His life takes a surreal turn when he encounters an inspiring street musician, leading to an artistic awakening that blurs the lines between reality and reverie.

NFDC Managing Director Prakash Magdum lauded the selection, stating it exemplifies the corporation’s commitment to nurturing Indian stories. By providing a “development-to-distribution” pathway, NFDC ensures that diverse voices from India find a sustained presence on the world stage.

IFFR 2026, the 55th edition of the festival, will run from January 29 to February 8, 2026, where Ustad Bantoo will be showcased as a “hypnotic work in defense of the creative spirit.”

Key Highlights:

• Global Premiere: ‘Ustad Bantoo’, directed by Arsh Jain, will have its world premiere at the 55th International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) 2026.
• NFDC Support: The film was developed through NFDC’s Work-in-Progress Lab and the 2025 Waves Film Bazaar in Goa.
• Award-Winning: The project previously won the Red Sea Fund Cash Award and post-production support from Prasad Corporation.
• Plot Insight: A psychological drama set in the world of Indian wedding bands, exploring the awakening of a creative spirit.