Ocean Film Festival Of India 2026: Mumbai To Host Day-Long Celebration Of Marine Life, Cinema & Conservation

Mumbai is set to turn the spotlight on the ocean with the upcoming Ocean Film Festival of India (TOFFOI), a unique event dedicated to marine conservation, coastal culture and environmental storytelling. Organised by Ecofolks in collaboration with the National Film Development Corporation, the festival will take place on Sunday, April 5, 2026.

The one-day festival will be hosted at VJBB Udyan & Zoo in Byculla East, offering an immersive experience that blends cinema, education, and environmental awareness. With India’s vast 11,000 km coastline as its backdrop, TOFFOI aims to reconnect people with the ocean and highlight the urgent need to protect marine ecosystems.

The festival will feature a curated lineup of film screenings that explore life beneath the waves and along India’s coasts. Some of the notable films include Deepstambha, Humpbacks of Goa, Samudrada Mote (Ocean’s Egg), Shark Preyed, and Fishing Palk Bay.

Beyond films, attendees can participate in insightful masterclasses led by experts. These include a session on marine biodiversity by Deepak Apte, focusing on life under the sea, as well as discussions on sailing and the wonders of the ocean. Another highlight is a masterclass by Zia Hajeebhoy, who will share perspectives on life lessons drawn from the depths of the sea.

Designed as more than just a film festival, TOFFOI also includes interactive activities aimed at engaging audiences of all ages, reinforcing the idea that oceans are not just resources to be used but ecosystems that must be preserved.

How To Reach VJBB Udyan & Zoo, Byculla?

By Train: The nearest station is Byculla Railway Station on the Central Line, just a short walk from the venue.

By Road: Easily accessible via taxis, autos, and private vehicles from South Mumbai and central suburbs.

By Bus: Several BEST buses operate in the Byculla area, connecting it to major parts of the city.