Director & Jury
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P. Sheshadri - Festival Director
A visionary filmmaker who holds the unprecedented record of winning eight consecutive National Film Awards. P. Sheshadri leads the AKKA – Cinegannada Film Festival 2026 as Festival Director, bringing decades of cinematic excellence and an unmatched eye for storytelling to the selection and awards process.
About the Director
P. Sheshadri is one of Karnataka’s most celebrated filmmakers, known for films that blend artistic depth with powerful narratives rooted in Kannada culture. His eight consecutive National Film Awards remain an unmatched record in Indian cinema — a testament to his consistency, craft, and creative vision.
As Festival Director, Sheshadri oversees the entire selection and jury process of the AKKA – Cinegannada Film Festival. His leadership ensures that every film is evaluated with the highest artistic standards, and that the festival reflects the true depth and diversity of Kannada cinema on a global stage.
Designation :
Festival Director
Event :
AKKA – Cinegannada Film Festival 2026
Recognition :
8 Consecutive National Film Awards
National Award Films :
Munnudi, December 1, Atithi, Beru, Thutturi, Vimukthi, Bettada Jeeva, Bharath Stores
Under Sheshadri’s direction, the festival maintains a rigorous and transparent selection process — from the 10-member Preview Committee screening to the final Main Jury evaluation — ensuring only the finest Kannada films reach the global stage.
- Leads the complete film selection process
- Guides the Main Jury and Preview Committee
- Ensures world-class artistic standards
Our Jury
The Decision Makers
Three of Karnataka’s most respected filmmakers and journalists entrusted with selecting the winners of the AKKA – Cinegannada Film Festival 2026.
Prakash Belawadi
Writer & Film Maker
A celebrated writer, actor, and filmmaker known for thought-provoking Kannada cinema. His sharp storytelling sensibility & deep understanding of narrative craft bring critical rigor to the jury’s evaluation process.
Mansore
Writer & Film Maker
An acclaimed writer and director exploring bold, socially relevant themes in Kannada cinema. His independent filmmaking experience ensures unconventional narratives receive the recognition they deserve.
Sumana Kittur
Journalist & Director
A respected journalist and filmmaker who bridges the worlds of media and cinema. Her dual expertise in storytelling and critical analysis adds a unique and balanced perspective to the jury’s final decisions.