Symbiosis Film Festival 2026 Is Here!
Every great film begins with a story. Sometimes it’s an idea scribbled in a notebook. Sometimes it’s a memory that refuses to fade. And sometimes, it’s a perspective the world hasn’t seen yet.
The 3rd Edition of the Symbiosis Film Festival (SFF) 2026 is built for those stories.
After the resounding success of its first two editions, the Symbiosis Film Festival returns on 14–15 December 2026 at the Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Pune, with an even stronger commitment to celebrating cinematic storytelling, nurturing creative talent, and connecting aspiring filmmakers with the larger film community.
What began as a festival celebrating cinema has quickly evolved into a vibrant meeting point for filmmakers, screenwriters, artists, technicians, industry professionals, and passionate cinephiles from across India and beyond. The previous edition highlighted the creative journey behind feature and documentary filmmaking, offering audiences and participants a rare glimpse into the writing, craft, and collaboration that shape memorable cinema.
This year, the spotlight shines even brighter on emerging voices.
At its core, SFF 2026 is dedicated to encouraging young filmmakers and screenwriters by providing them with a platform to showcase their work, interact with industry experts, and become part of a thriving creative ecosystem. The festival believes that every filmmaker deserves an audience, every screenplay deserves a chance, and every fresh perspective has the potential to spark meaningful conversations.
The competition features two categories:
Short Fiction
- Films up to 20 minutes
- Around 8–10 films will be shortlisted for award consideration
Short Documentary
- Films up to 30 minutes
- Around 8–10 films will be shortlisted for award consideration
Beyond the competition, SFF is designed to inspire collaboration and learning. Participants will have opportunities to engage with fellow creators, exchange ideas, expand their networks, and learn from experienced professionals working across different facets of the film industry. It is a space where storytelling transcends genres, backgrounds, and borders, celebrating diversity and inclusivity in every frame.
For aspiring filmmakers, festivals like SFF offer something invaluable: visibility. A short film is more than just a project; it is often a filmmaker’s first introduction to audiences, collaborators, mentors, and future opportunities. Whether you’re experimenting with fiction, documenting real-world stories, or discovering your unique cinematic voice, presenting your work before an engaged community can be the beginning of an exciting creative journey.
Film submissions for SFF 2026 are now open, with the submission deadline set for 30 September 2026. Selected filmmakers will be notified on 5 November 2026, ahead of the festival taking place on 14–15 December 2026 at the picturesque Symbiosis International campus in Lavale, Pune.
If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to share your story, this is it.
Because cinema has always been about more than entertainment. It is about perspectives, emotions, questions, and conversations. It is about preserving moments, challenging ideas, and connecting people across cultures and experiences.
The next unforgettable story could be yours.
Submit your film, join a growing community of storytellers, and be part of the 3rd Edition of the Symbiosis Film Festival. We can’t wait to see what you create.
