Prime Video’s ‘Phoolan’ Heads to TIFF 2026 Before Release: Bandit Queen’s Untold Story Set for Global Spotlight

Prime Video has scored a major international milestone with its upcoming original film Phoolan, which has been officially selected for a Special Presentation at the 51st Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).

The film will have its world premiere on September 16, 2026, at the Princess of Wales Theatre in Toronto, during the festival, which runs from September 10 to September 20. The selection places Phoolan alongside some of the most anticipated films from across the globe, underlining the growing global recognition of Indian storytelling.

Richie Mehta Brings Phoolan Devi’s Story to Life

Helmed by Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Richie Mehta, Phoolan is inspired by the autobiography of Phoolan Devi, one of India’s most controversial and widely discussed historical figures, often remembered as the Bandit Queen.

Rather than presenting a conventional biographical drama, the film focuses on one of the most defining episodes of her life—a tense 48-hour siege, during which thousands of armed men reportedly surrounded a village with the sole objective of capturing and killing her.

The story follows Phoolan Devi’s transformation from a 17-year-old girl living in poverty to becoming one of the country’s most feared and talked-about outlaws. Against the backdrop of rural India, the narrative explores themes of survival, injustice, resilience and courage.

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Sneha Kumari Leads a Strong Ensemble Cast

The film features Sneha Kumari in the lead role as Phoolan Devi, marking a significant performance in a story rooted in India’s social and historical landscape.

She is joined by a supporting cast that includes Anurag Thakur, Vikram Pratap Singh, Aakash Dahiya, Prateek Pachori, and Dev Dutt Budholiya.

With a blend of action, drama and emotional storytelling, the film aims to present a nuanced portrayal of one of India’s most complex personalities.

Backed by Prime Video and Namah Pictures

Phoolan is produced by Namah Pictures, with Shareen Mantri Kedia, Kishor Arora, Kanwal Kohli, and Richie Mehta serving as producers.

The project reflects Prime Video’s continued investment in original Indian stories with global appeal, following the platform’s growing slate of internationally recognised productions.

A Global Stage for an Indian Story

The Toronto International Film Festival has long been regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals and frequently serves as a launchpad for critically acclaimed international cinema.

By securing a place in TIFF’s Special Presentation section, Phoolan has already generated considerable buzz ahead of its streaming release.

With its powerful narrative, acclaimed filmmaker, and international debut, the film is expected to introduce audiences around the world to a compelling chapter of Indian history while offering a fresh cinematic perspective on the life of Phoolan Devi.