Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Oct 31: The Karnataka state government on Thursday announced the winners of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Awards for cinema for the calendar year 2019, honouring stalwarts who have made remarkable contributions to the Kannada film industry.

Veteran actor, theatre artiste and politician Umashree, known for her powerful performances in acclaimed films such as Gulabi Talkies and Kanasemba Kudureyaneri, has been conferred with the Dr Rajkumar Lifetime Achievement Award, presented to outstanding actors for their enduring impact on Kannada cinema.

Noted filmmaker N R Nanjunde Gowda, acclaimed for his work in Naanu Gandhi, has been chosen for the Puttanna Kanagal Award, which recognises lifetime achievement and excellence in film direction.

Celebrated filmmaker Richard Castelino, known for his significant contributions to Kannada cinema, has been honoured with the Dr Vishnuvardhan Award for lifetime contribution to the industry.

In the literary category, Raghunath C H’s book Belli Tore – Cinema Prabhandagalu was selected as the Best Book on Cinema for 2019, while ‘Gule’, directed by Srinath S Hadagali, was named the Best Short Film of the year.

The awards highlight the Karnataka government’s continued efforts to recognise and celebrate the creative brilliance and dedication of individuals who have shaped the cultural and cinematic landscape of the state.