IFFM 2026 full list of winners: Rishab Shetty wins Best Director for Kantara, Rekha honoured for ‘excellence in cinema’
IFFM 2026 Winners: Complete List of Award Recipients
Bharatmorningnews.com – The IFFM 2026 full list of winners has been officially announced, marking another milestone in the celebration of Indian cinema on the global stage. The 17th edition of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne concluded with a star-studded ceremony that honoured exceptional contributions from filmmakers, actors, and industry veterans. This year’s awards reflected the diversity and depth of Indian storytelling, recognising achievements across multiple categories and languages.
Among the most celebrated names in the IFFM 2026 full list of winners was Rishab Shetty, who received the prestigious Best Director award for his critically acclaimed film Kantara. Shetty’s work has been widely praised for its authentic portrayal of Karnataka’s cultural heritage and its innovative storytelling approach. The festival also recognised several other outstanding performers, including Dulquer Salmaan, Kirti Kulhari, Vijay Varma, and Rasika Dugal, each honoured for their remarkable contributions to Indian cinema.
Veterans and Milestones Celebrated
The ceremony paid special tribute to legendary figures in Indian entertainment. Veteran actress Rekha was honoured with the Excellence in Cinema award, recognising her decades-long career and enduring impact on Indian filmmaking. Meanwhile, Rani Mukerji received a special accolade celebrating her three-decade milestone in the entertainment industry, highlighting her versatility and consistent excellence across various roles and genres.
“My films, my characters and my voice have travelled so far from home,” said one of the evening’s honourees, reflecting on the international recognition that Indian cinema continues to receive.
Expanding Horizons for Indian Cinema
As one of the premier international showcases for Indian cinema, the IFFM presents films from across the nation and neighbouring territories. The festival maintains a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equality, amplifying voices and narratives that reflect varied communities and lived experiences. This year’s selections demonstrated the expanding reach of Indian storytelling to international audiences.
The award-winning entries ranged from theatrical releases and mainstream streaming series to independent productions and documentary films. The festival continues to serve as a vital bridge connecting Indian filmmakers with global viewers, celebrating both established stars and emerging talent in equal measure. For more updates on Indian cinema, readers can explore Hindustan Times’ entertainment section.
What the Awards Mean for Indian Cinema
The recognition received at IFFM 2026 underscores the growing international appreciation for Indian films and their unique storytelling traditions. These awards not only honour individual achievements but also validate the global appeal of Indian cinema. The festival’s emphasis on diverse narratives ensures that stories from different regions, languages, and communities receive the attention they deserve on the world stage.
The IFFM 2026 full list of winners represents a comprehensive celebration of talent that spans generations and genres. From veteran actors receiving lifetime achievement honours to new directors being recognised for innovative work, the ceremony highlighted the richness and vitality of Indian filmmaking. As the festival looks toward future editions, it continues to strengthen the connection between Indian cinema and international audiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the IFFM 2026 ceremony take place? The 17th edition of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne held its award ceremony in 2026, celebrating the year’s best contributions to Indian cinema.
Who won the Best Director award at IFFM 2026? Rishab Shetty won the Best Director award for his film Kantara, which was widely acclaimed for its authentic storytelling and cultural representation.
What award did Rekha receive at IFFM 2026? Rekha was honoured with the Excellence in Cinema award, recognising her distinguished career and contributions to Indian filmmaking over several decades.
How many categories were featured in the IFFM 2026 awards? The festival celebrated achievements across multiple categories including Best Director, acting honours, and special milestone recognitions for industry veterans.
Where can I find more information about IFFM 2026? For comprehensive coverage and updates, visit Hindustan Times’ Bollywood section for detailed reports on the festival and its winners.