Mohammad Tauqir Islam's debut feature film "Delupi" has been officially selected for the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) 2026, marking a major milestone for Bangladesh's independent cinema on the global stage.

The 55th edition of IFFR will be held from January 29 to February 8, 2026, in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, bringing together leading international filmmakers, emerging talents, and representatives of global arthouse cinema. The selection positions "Delupi" as a significant new Bangladeshi voice at one of the world's most influential film festivals.

"Delupi" will have its international premiere in IFFR's Bright Future section, a competitive category dedicated to first- and second-time feature films by promising filmmakers from around the world.

Expressing his thoughts on the selection, director Mohammad Tauqir Islam said the moment came with mixed emotions. "When we first received the email from Rotterdam expressing their interest in hosting the world premiere, we were a bit conflicted. During the making of the film, we had promised the people of Deluti Union that they would be the first to watch it," he said.

"At the same time, we wanted Bangladeshi audiences to see the film before anyone else. We shared this with the festival organisers, and they agreed. Now, seeing Delupi travel beyond our borders and reach international audiences truly makes us happy," he added.

"At the same time, we wanted Bangladeshi audiences to see the film before anyone else. We shared this with the festival organisers, and they agreed. Now, seeing Delupi travel beyond our borders and reach international audiences truly makes us happy," he added.

Released in Bangladeshi theatres on November 7, 2025, Delupi is currently still running in cinemas across the country. Set in southern Khulna, the film explores issues such as river erosion, climate change, the national impact of local politics, and the everyday struggles of ordinary people. Through emotionally grounded storytelling, it reflects the resilience and complexities of life in the region.

The film stars Chironjit Biswas, Aditi Roy, Rudro Roy, Md Zakir Hossain, among others, and is produced under the banner of Footprint Film Production.