Call for Entries – RIFF 2026
The Rajarata Independent Film Festival (RIFF) invites filmmakers from around the world to submit their works for our inaugural edition in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
Our mission is to bring independent cinema to the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural landscape and create a meaningful dialogue between local and international filmmakers.
Whether you are an emerging filmmaker or an established director, RIFF is your platform to share stories that matter.
Categories
> Short Film Competition
Open to fiction, documentary, animation, or experimental works.
Duration: up to 30 minutes.
Awards will be presented by our jury.
> Feature Film Showcase (Non-Competitive)
Independent fiction and documentaries over 60 minutes.
Selected films will be screened as part of our curated showcase.
Rules & Guidelines
Films must have been completed after January 1, 2023.
Subtitles in English are required for all non-English films.
Multiple submissions are allowed, but each must be entered separately.
Filmmakers retain full rights; selected films grant RIFF the right to screen during the festival.
Submission fees apply as listed on FilmFreeway.
Submission Platform
All entries must be submitted through our official partner:
Sri Lankan Panorama
A special showcase dedicated to celebrating the diversity and creativity of Sri Lankan cinema. This section highlights both shorts and features that reflect the voices, stories, and cultural spirit of Sri Lanka. Short films in this category will compete for awards, while feature films will be screened as part of our non-competitive showcase.
Rules & Guidelines
Films must have been completed after January 1, 2023.
Open to fiction, documentary, animation, or experimental films.
Short Films: Up to 30 minutes (eligible for competition).
Feature Films: Over 60 minutes (non-competitive showcase).
All films must include Sinhala or Tamil dialogue with English subtitles.
Multiple submissions are allowed, but each requires a separate application.
Submission Process
Download and complete the official RIFF Sri Lankan Panorama Application Form.
Send the completed form along with:
A private online screener link (YouTube/Vimeo with password) OR Google Drive link.
Film stills (3–5 high-resolution images).
Director’s bio and photo.
Contact details.
Email your submission to: rajarataiff@gmail.com
