1. Due to uncertainty around the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, DIFF 2021 may be a hybrid version or have to move to an online platform.
2. Given that DIFF is a small festival that can showcase only a limited number of handpicked films, only films that are original in their story-telling and use of cinema language, and that meet the highest international standards, will have a chance of being selected.
3. All films should be independently produced. Independently produced films which have been acquired by digital platforms are also eligible for submission.
4. Films completed on or after 1st January 2020 are eligible for submission.
5. Films need to be a Dharamshala premiere.
6. Entries are accepted in all languages. All non-English language films should contain English subtitles.
7. Only HD format films are accepted.
8. All entry fees are non-refundable under all circumstances
9. Final status of the selected films will be notified in October 2021.
10. Selected films cannot be withdrawn once the festival programme is announced.
11. DIFF will not pay a screening fee or delivery fee for the selected films.
12. Selected films from outside of India need to send downloadable digital files.
13. All selection decisions will be final and binding upon the participants. DIFF is under no obligation to provide any feedback for selections or non-selections.
14. Submitted films should not contain any content which violates/infringes copyright.
15. Any content that promotes racism, hatred amongst communities or religions, gender discrimination, animal cruelty, and/or are religious/commercial propaganda films, will not be accepted.
16. DIFF reserves the rights to use the posters/video clippings/trailers of the selected films for promotion on social media and its partner platforms.
17. Selected films must provide all the required details of their films as per the format prescribed by DIFF, including the digital copy of the film. Exact specifications will be communicated for all selected films.
18. By submitting the film to DIFF, the applicant hereby confirms that she/he is the rightful owner of the film or has the right & authority to submit the film to DIFF for selection. The applicant also indemnifies DIFF from any legal claim or dispute that may arise from the submitted film.
19. In case of films produced by a film institute, government agency, educational institute or any other organisation, the applicant must provide written permission via mail (post selection) from the concerned authorities confirming the participation of the film in DIFF. Any kind of misrepresentation or failure to adhere to the norms of DIFF will lead to disqualification of the film.
20. The submitted film should not be under any kind of legal dispute.
