This year’s Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) promises something truly special for Indian cinema fans. The 50th annual TIFF event runs from September 4 to 14 in Canada. It’s a huge moment, especially for the Deol family, as two of their films are featured. Entertainment journalist Kiran Jain brings us this exciting report.
Four Indian films will grace the screens at TIFF 2025. These include Neeraj Ghaywan’s “Homebound,” starring Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor. Then there’s Anurag Kashyap’s “Bandar,” featuring Bobby Deol and Sanya Malhotra. Bikas Mishra’s “Bayaan” also joins the lineup with Huma Qureshi and Chandrachur Singh. Finally, a beautifully restored version of Ramesh Sippy’s timeless classic, “Sholay,” will be shown. This iconic film stars Dharmendra, Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, Jaya Bhaduri, and Sanjeev Kumar.
A Special Moment for Bobby Deol
TIFF 2025 feels like a grand celebration for the Deol family. Both “Bandar” and “Sholay” earned a spot this year. Bobby Deol plays a major role in “Bandar.” His father, Dharmendra, left an unforgettable mark in “Sholay.” A source from film production mentioned Bobby will represent India at TIFF. He is absolutely thrilled. To have his own film and his father’s film shown together on such a big stage is incredibly meaningful to him. Sadly, Dharmendra won’t be able to attend due to health concerns. He hasn’t received permission to travel. However, Bobby will definitely be there.
A Touching Coincidence
There’s a remarkable connection between Bobby Deol’s career and this TIFF opportunity. Bobby first appeared on the big screen in the 1977 film “Dharam Veer.” He played the childhood version of his father, Dharmendra, in that movie. “Dharam Veer” was released on September 6. Now, exactly on that same date, both “Bandar” and “Sholay” are scheduled for screening at the Toronto Film Festival. The source also shared that Bobby sees this as a blessing. He feels September 6 has always been a special day for his career. On that day in 1977, audiences saw him for the very first time. Now, years later, his film and his father’s film will premiere together on an international platform on the same date. It truly feels like a dream come true for him.
Working Hard for His Next Film
Bobby Deol is currently busy shooting his next film in Ladakh. He is working alongside actress Fatima Sana Shaikh. Priyanka Ghosh is directing this new project. Ladakh’s challenging weather and high altitude can be tough for actors. However, Bobby has been consistently focusing on his fitness. Sources reveal that Bobby is giving his all to the current shoot. But once the TIFF program gets closer, he plans to take a break. He will then head straight to Toronto for the festival.