Richie Mehta's Phoolan Heads to TIFF 2026, Taking the Bandit Queen's Story to the Global Stage

Emmy-winning filmmaker Richie Mehta is set to make a significant mark on the international film circuit once again. His latest film, Phoolan, inspired by the life of Phoolan Devi, has been selected for its world premiere at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). The film will be screened in the prestigious Special Presentations section on September 16, ahead of its global release on Prime Video.

A Different Take on Phoolan Devi's Story

Unlike traditional biopics that attempt to cover an entire life journey, Phoolan focuses on a single, defining episode from Phoolan Devi's life. Written and directed by Richie Mehta, the film is inspired by I, Phoolan – The Autobiography of India's Bandit Queen and explores a dramatic 48-hour siege, during which thousands of armed men reportedly surrounded a village in an attempt to kill her. The story presents this intense chapter as a survival thriller rather than a conventional retelling of her life.

Richie Mehta Returns With Another Powerful Story

Richie Mehta, best known for acclaimed projects like Delhi Crime and Poacher, has earned international recognition for his realistic storytelling. With Phoolan, he once again explores a story rooted in Indian history while aiming to reach a global audience.

The film stars Sneha Kumari in the lead role as Phoolan Devi, supported by actors Anurag Thakur, Vikram Pratap Singh, Aakash Dahiya, Prateek Pachori, and Dev Dutt Budholiya. Produced by Namah Pictures, the project will stream on Prime Video following its festival premiere.

A Prestigious International Platform

The Toronto International Film Festival is regarded as one of the world's most influential film festivals, often serving as a launchpad for critically acclaimed films and awards-season contenders. Selection in the Special Presentations category places Phoolan alongside several high-profile international productions, highlighting the growing global interest in Indian storytelling.

The announcement has generated excitement among cinema lovers, particularly because it revisits one of India's most debated historical figures through a fresh narrative lens. Rather than retelling every chapter of Phoolan Devi's life, the film promises an intense, character-driven account of one of her most dramatic moments.

With Richie Mehta at the helm and a premiere at one of the world's biggest film festivals, Phoolan is already being seen as one of the most anticipated Indian films of the year.