Phoolan gets standing ovation

Film premieres at Toronto International Film Festival

The world premiere of Phoolan took place at the ongoing Toronto International Film Festival on Wednesday evening. The film, based on the life of bandit-turned-legislator Phoolan Devi, was lauded at the prestigious film festival, earning a standing ovation from a packed auditorium.

The Amazon original film, directed and written by Richie Mehta, was screened at TIFF 2026 as part of the festival’s coveted Special Presentation section, where it left the audience moved, earning almost unanimous praise. Screened at the iconic Princess of Wales Theatre — one of Toronto’s most celebrated cultural landmarks, Phoolan received a standing ovation from a packed audience of over 2000.

Phoolan stars Sneha Kumari in the titular role, and the actor led the film’s contingent at TIFF, soaking in the applause.