Ootpataang Is Back: Delhi's Gloriously Weird Short Film Festival Returns in January 2027
Dil thaam lo, tote baandh lo. Ootpataang is back.
If you've never heard of it, the name tells you everything. Ootpataang is that wonderful Hindi word for anything weird, absurd or slightly nonsensical. And this New Delhi festival has built an entire personality around it. Its tagline? For the weird, by the weird.
After its first edition earlier this year, the team has announced that the second one, cheekily called 2 Oot 2 Pataang, is coming in January 2027.
What to expect
The announcement promises a proper mixed bag:
A short film festival of absurd, offbeat and entertaining films
Talks
A bazaar
Snacks-wacks
Bhale log, which I'm choosing to translate as "good company"
And in true Ootpataang fashion, it signs off with "aur bhi bahut kuch hai, aap aao toh sahi." There's lots more, just turn up.
The first edition, held in New Delhi in March 2026, also mixed screenings with live performances and interactive workshops led by artists. If that's the template, edition two should be a lovely, chaotic afternoon out.
Filmmakers, this one is for you
This is the part I really want indie filmmakers to read. Submissions are open.
According to the festival's listing on the Festhome submissions platform:
Format: short films of 20 minutes or less, live-action, animation or mixed media
Genres: horror, sci-fi, fantasy, underground, experimental, spoofs, sketches, mockumentaries and absurd comedies
Fee: no submission fee
Deadline: 15 November 2026
A firm no: films made with generative AI aren't accepted
The listing also mentions three wonderfully named prizes: the Golden Camel Award for best short, the Patang Medal by popular vote, and the Laat Prize for the best live performance or workshop.
Why festivals like this matter
Every big city in India needs a space where filmmakers can be strange without apologising for it. Mainstream festivals are wonderful, but they often reward polish. Ootpataang rewards personality.
It's the same spirit we loved at Bandra Film Festival's short film nights and at the IFP Festival in Mumbai: young, homegrown, a bit rough around the edges and full of ideas. Delhi deserves its own version, and Ootpataang is building it one absurd film at a time.
Who should go?
Anyone who has ever watched a short film and thought, what did I just see? and loved it.
Zine makers, ceramic artists and indie creators looking for their people.
Gen Z Delhi, obviously. The festival's whole vibe is built for you.
Filmmakers who want feedback from a real audience, not just an algorithm.
Before you go
The exact dates and venue for January 2027 will be confirmed on the festival's Instagram and website, ootpataangfestival.com. Follow both so you don't miss the announcement.
If you're submitting, do it well before the deadline. Absurd films still need subtitles and a decent export.
Bring friends. Weird is better shared.
Tote baandh lo, everyone. January is going to be ootpataang in the best possible way.
Frequently asked questions
When is Ootpataang Festival 2027?
Ootpataang returns in January 2027 in New Delhi. Exact dates and venue will be confirmed on the festival's official channels.
What is Ootpataang Festival?
It is an independent festival in New Delhi celebrating weird, absurd and offbeat short films, along with talks, live performances, workshops and a bazaar.
Can I submit my short film to Ootpataang?
Yes. Submissions are open for short films of 20 minutes or less in genres such as horror, sci-fi, fantasy, experimental, spoof, mockumentary and absurd comedy. The festival's submission listing states there is no entry fee.
What is the submission deadline for Ootpataang 2027?
The festival's listing on Festhome gives the final submission deadline as 15 November 2026. Check the official website, ootpataangfestival.com, for the latest details.
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