Rajasthan International Film Festival 2026 to Begin in Jodhpur from January 31

The cultural capital of Rajasthan, the Sun City of Jodhpur, is set to host the grand five-day Rajasthan International Film Festival (RIFF) 2026 beginning Saturday. The prestigious international film festival will showcase 78 films from India and around the world, bringing together filmmakers, film personalities, embassy officials, and cinema enthusiasts in large numbers.

Beyond screenings, RIFF 2026 will serve as a powerful platform to promote Rajasthani language, folk arts, and the state’s rich cultural heritage. Organizers have confirmed that all preparations for the festival have been successfully completed.

Festival Director Somendra Harsh, while addressing the media, shared that alongside India, films from the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia, Italy, Singapore, and Venezuela will be screened at the festival. International filmmakers and embassy representatives from participating nations will attend the opening and closing ceremonies.

This year, Poland – Polish Institute has been designated as the Focus Country. Officials from the Polish Institute will be present as special guests at both the inauguration and closing ceremonies.

The festival will be held from January 31 to February 4, 2026. Dignitaries invited for the occasion include Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, Cabinet Ministers Jogaram Patel and Joraram Kumawat, State Minister K.K. Bishnoi, MLA Devendra Joshi, and Atul Bhansali.

RIFF 2026 promises not only to celebrate the diverse colors of cinema but also to amplify Rajasthan’s cultural identity on a global stage.

Special Masterclasses at RIFF 2026 :

Mukesh Chhabra – Discovering the Craft of Acting

Renowned casting director, actor, and filmmaker Mukesh Chhabra will conduct a special masterclass titled “Discovering the Craft of Acting” on February 3 at Miraj Cinemas, Blue City Mall.

The session will delve into the nuances of acting, the audition process, understanding character depth, and preparing oneself for the film industry. Designed particularly for aspiring actors, film students, and emerging artists, the masterclass will offer real-world industry insights and professional guidance.

Mukesh Chhabra is widely regarded as one of Indian cinema’s most influential casting directors. Having worked on over 500 films and web series including Chillar Party, Rockstar, Gangs of Wasseypur, Queen, Delhi Crime, and Sacred Games, he is known for discovering and nurturing authentic talent. In 2020, he made his directorial debut with Dil Bechara. His contribution to shaping a new generation of actors in Indian cinema remains highly significant.

Anup Soni – From Stage to Screen

Actor and television anchor Anup Soni will conduct a masterclass on February 4, focusing on building confidence, strengthening camera presence, and understanding performance techniques across different mediums.

Designed for actors, theatre artists, and cinema enthusiasts, the session will provide practical insights drawn from years of professional experience.

Anup Soni is a respected Indian actor known for his commanding screen presence and versatility. His notable films include Gangaajal and Fiza. He is widely recognized as the host of the popular crime show Crime Patrol and for his roles in television series such as Balika Vadhu and Sea Hawks. With extensive experience across theatre, television, and cinema, Soni continues to inspire both audiences and aspiring performers.

Rajit Kapur – Between Thought and Performance: The Art of Becoming

Veteran actor Rajit Kapur will conduct a masterclass titled “Between Thought and Performance: The Art of Becoming.” The session will explore the subtle process where thought, emotion, and expression merge to create powerful performances.

Drawing from decades of experience, Rajit Kapur will discuss character preparation, dialogue interpretation, the difference between stage and screen acting, and the actor’s internal creative world. Participants will also have the opportunity for interactive dialogue and Q&A.

Rajit Kapur is a distinguished figure in Indian theatre, cinema, and television. He received the National Film Award for Best Actor for portraying Mahatma Gandhi in The Making of the Mahatma (1996). His other notable works include Agnisakshi (Malayalam film), the iconic television series Byomkesh Bakshi, and Suraj Ka Satvan Ghoda, directed by Shyam Benegal.

Discussion on Seema Kapoor’s Autobiography

A special session will be dedicated to discussing Seema Kapoor’s autobiography, “Yun Guzri Hai Ab Talak.”

Seema Kapoor grew up in the vibrant environment of traditional Parsi theatre, which deeply influenced her artistic journey. A graduate of Aligarh Muslim University, she has collaborated with celebrated theatre personalities such as Habib Tanvir, Rajendra Nath, Dadi Pudumjee, Astad Deboo, and Ranjeel Kapoor.

Through puppet theatre, she has represented India internationally. She has also been active in writing, directing, and producing films and television projects. Her notable works include feature films Haat – The Weekly Bazaar and Mr. Kabadi, television serials such as Zindaginama, Rishte, and Avantika, and documentaries like Mahanadi Ke Kinare and Song of the Soil. Her children’s feature film Abhay received a National Award. She has also been honored at the Third Eye Asian Film Festival and Jagran International Film Festival.

Open Forum Talk Shows at RIFF 2026 :

RIFF 2026 will also host a series of Open Forum discussions on contemporary cinema-related themes:

February 1 OTT Raga: Crafting Stories in the Streaming Era – Exploring storytelling trends and opportunities in the digital streaming landscape. Powered by Stage OTT

February 2: Session on the role of regional languages in cinema, with special focus on the recognition, future, and challenges of the Rajasthani language. Powered by Department of Art & Culture, Government of Rajasthab

February 3: Discussion on Cinema as a Catalyst for Tourism, Investment, and Cultural Promotion. Powered by Rajasthan Tourism.

February 4 (12:15 PM): Women, Culture and Cinema – Examining women’s representation and cultural influence in cinema. Powered by WoW.

February 4 (2:00 PM): Cinemasthan: Panorama of Cinema in Rajasthan – Reflecting on the journey, current landscape, and future prospects of cinema in Rajasthan. Powered by RIFF Film Club & Cinemasthan

Rajasthani Madhu Appointed Cultural Brand Ambassador “

For RIFF 2026, Mayumi, popularly known as Rajasthani Madhu has been appointed as the Cultural Brand Ambassador. Originally from Tokyo, Japan, Mayumi was first introduced to Rajasthani folk culture in 2009. Captivated by Ghoomar and Kalbelia dance forms, she trained under renowned artists, including Asha Sapera. Today, she teaches these traditional dances in Japan and serves as a vibrant cultural bridge between India and Japan.

Through stage performances, social media outreach, and even teaching Hindi, she actively promotes Indian culture abroad. Her dedication to Rajasthani art, traditional attire, and global cultural representation has earned her recognition as a beloved cultural ambassador.

RIFF 2026 promises to be not just a festival of films, but a celebration of storytelling, cultural exchange, and Rajasthan’s artistic legacy on the world stage