Indian cinema is set for another proud international moment as Gudgudi, the short film directed by debutant Manisha K Makwana, has been selected for the Marché du Film segment at the 79th Cannes Film Festival 2026. Headlined by actor Ahsaas Channa, the project marks a significant milestone for both the filmmaker and the cast.
A dream debut for Manisha Makwana
For Manisha Makwana, Gudgudi is more than just a first film. Reports suggest the director has spent nearly a decade working behind the scenes on acclaimed shows such as The Family Man, Farzi, Guns & Gulaabs and Citadel: Honey Bunny, building her craft before stepping into the spotlight.
Speaking about the Cannes selection, Manisha told Variety India that the film came from “a very personal place”, making the recognition even more emotional.
Speaking about the film, Makwana told the same publication, "I think all of us, at some point in our lives, have felt unseen or overlooked. “Gudgudi” is really about that universal feeling—and how sometimes, being truly seen can feel almost magical. It’s a matter of perspective, and that’s what the film gently explores.
Ahsaas Channa leads the film
The short film stars Ahsaas Channa, whose presence has already generated curiosity around the project. The actor, who has built a strong fan following through digital and mainstream work, described the Cannes moment as surreal and deeply meaningful in a statement, especially with Gudgudi becoming her first film to reach the prestigious festival platform.
What Marché du Film means
While not part of the main competition slate, Marché du Film is one of the most important global film markets held alongside Cannes. It gives filmmakers access to distributors, producers, buyers and collaborators from across the world, often helping smaller films travel internationally.
The project has been produced by White Peacock Films along with Mukesh Chhabra, the celebrated casting director and producer known for backing fresh talent. Industry insiders believe the film’s emotional core and intimate storytelling helped it stand out.
Another win for Indian storytelling
In recent years, Indian films and creators have steadily expanded their presence at global festivals, and Gudgudi continues that momentum. A deeply personal short film finding space at Cannes is also a reminder that intimate stories can travel just as far as large-scale spectacles.
