The DIFF Film Fellows Initiative, launched in 2014, nurtures emerging filmmaking talent from the Himalayan regions of India. Each year, a call for applications is announced, and a jury of filmmakers and industry professionals selects a cohort of fellows to attend DIFF, where they engage in festival events and receive one-on-one mentorship from established filmmakers. By focusing on applicants from the Indian Himalayan region, the programme provides crucial opportunities for budding filmmakers who may otherwise lack access to these resources. This exchange fosters growth for both fellows and mentors, building lasting relationships between new and seasoned artists.
Many DIFF Film Fellows have embarked on filmmaking careers, with several now working on or completing their first features. Notably, DIFF Film Fellow Rahat Mahajan’s Meghdoot was selected for the prestigious Tiger Competition at the International Film Festival of Rotterdam. Past mentors include acclaimed filmmakers such as Hansal Mehta, Gurvinder Singh, Anupama Srinivasan, Umesh Kulkarni, Kesang Tseten, Dominic Sangma and Dechen Roder.
Supported by Arthshila
About the Programme
The DIFF Himalayan Film Fellows Programme 2026 is a mentorship and project development initiative supporting filmmakers from the Indian Himalayan Region who are developing their first or second feature-length fiction film. The programme combines online mentorship, an intensive in-person residency in Dharamshala, and participation at Dharamshala International Film Festival (DIFF).
Seven selected fellows – Shrutiman Deori, Naseer Khanday, Kulanandini Mahanta, Poonam Gurung, Tenzin Tsewang, Maharshi Tuhin Kashyap and Sarthak Chauhan, will work closely with three industry mentors Dominic Sangma, Dechen Roder and Umesh Kulkarni and a cohort of peers to strengthen their projects, develop their storytelling practice, and gain valuable industry exposure.
The 2026–27 fellowship cycle will run from September 2026 to April 2027.
Important Dates
Selected Fellows Announced: 23 September 2026
Intensive: 25–28 October 2026
DIFF Festival Residency: 29 October – 1 November 2026
Online Session: dates TBC
