International Film Festival in Delhi is considered to be the best film festival in India in terms of participation and screening. This festival was started 36 years ago by the directorate of film festivals. The Government of India set this up in 1973; to organize International and National film festivals within the country. The major work of this organization is to facilitates India's participation in festivals abroad, arrange screenings of foreign films in India and Indian films abroad and holds the National Film Awards function.

As a vehicle of cultural exchange, the international film festival at Delhi promotes international friendship, provides access to new trends in world cinema, generates healthy competition and, in the process, helps to improve the standards of Indian films. Indian film industry is a vibrant and growing film industry but still slacks in terms of quality content. Delhi Film festival showcases various films from contemporary and parallel cinema industry in India. Apart from Indian films, it also showcases various landmark films from Asian countries and world. At present, films from more than 30 countries are screened in this festival.

The screenings are done in various theatres across the Delhi and the schedule is published in all the major papers in Delhi. The international film festival of Delhi is based on the format of Moscow film festival. It gives away awards in various categories such as best film, best director and best screenplay. Down the decade, this festival has created a niche for itself and is counted in the league of Cannes, Berlin and Paris film festivals.