Dr. Rajkumar, Puttanna Kanagal and Dr. Vishnuvardhan Film Awards (2019) announced: Umashree, N.R. Nanjundegowda and Richard Castelino honoured

Bengaluru: The Karnataka Government has announced the winners of the 2019 State Film Awards for lifetime achievement in cinema, honouring senior film personalities Umashree, N.R. Nanjundegowda, and Richard Castelino with the prestigious Dr. Rajkumar, Puttanna Kanagal, and Dr. Vishnuvardhan Awards, respectively.

As per the government notification, each award carries a cash prize of Rs 5 lakh and a 50-gram gold medal. The government also announced winners for the annual film literature and short film categories under the Department of Information and Public Relations.

For the 2019 Film Literature Awards, Raghunath Ch. H. was selected for his book “Bellitere – Cinema Prabandhagalu” (a collection of film essays), and Prakash Kambatalli of Ankita Pustaka Prakashana was recognized as publisher. Each recipient will receive ₹20,000 in cash and a 50-gram silver medal.

The short film “Gule” has been chosen as the Best Short Film of 2019, with producer Manohar and director Srinath S. Hadagali set to receive Rs 25,000 in cash and a 50-gram silver medal each, the department confirmed.

Lifetime achievement awardees

Dr. Rajkumar Award – Umashree

Veteran actor, theatre personality, and politician Umashree has been honoured with the Dr. Rajkumar Award for her lifelong contribution to Kannada cinema and performing arts.

Beginning her artistic journey on the theatre stage as a child, Umashree entered films in the early 1980s through “Anubhava.” Over the decades, she has played an extraordinary range of roles — from humour to intense and emotional characters — and has acted in over 200 films, becoming a pillar of Kannada cinema.

A two-time Karnataka State Film Award winner and recipient of the National Award for “Gulabi Talkies,” Umashree’s acting prowess has earned her both critical and popular acclaim. Her transition into public life was equally successful; she served as MLA and Minister in the Karnataka Government (2013–2018) and is currently a Member of the Legislative Council.

Despite her political commitments, she continues to remain active in theatre, television, and films. Her simplicity, social concern, and dedication to art have made her a symbol of inspiration in Karnataka’s cultural landscape.

Puttanna Kanagal Award – N.R. Nanjundegowda

The Puttanna Kanagal Award has been conferred on acclaimed film director N.R. Nanjundegowda, a versatile figure who has also made his mark as an actor, dialogue writer, and cultural activist.

After gaining experience in theatre and media, Nanjundegowda made his independent directorial debut with “Sankranti” in 1989, marking a new phase in Kannada cinema. As the founder and president of “Children’s India,” he has tirelessly promoted children’s films and creativity, besides publishing the children’s magazine “Chilipili.”

His notable works include “Amanusha,” “Navataare,” “Chukki Chandrama,” “Nanu Neenu Jodi,” “Nanugandhi,” “Apoorva Jodi,” and the National Award-winning film “Hebbet Ramakka.”

His directorial style, marked by simplicity and emotional depth, has influenced a new generation of filmmakers. His contributions have been recognized nationally and internationally, with several of his films screened at global festivals. The award honours his lifelong dedication to meaningful cinema and his leadership in nurturing socially responsible filmmaking in Karnataka.

Dr. Vishnuvardhan Award – Richard Castelino

Renowned coastal filmmaker Richard Castelino has been selected for the Dr. Vishnuvardhan Award for his exceptional contribution to multilingual cinema — particularly in Tulu, Konkani, Kodava, and Kannada films.

A native of Mangaluru, Castelino entered the record books in the 1990s by completing the Tulu film “September 8” in just 24 hours, setting a world record. His Konkani masterpiece “Bangar Patler” achieved international recognition, winning multiple awards and being screened at the Cannes Film Festival.

In 2017, he made his Kannada debut with “Ellellu Neene Nannallu Neene” and went on to direct films such as “Ponnamma” and “Kazar.” Castelino’s works are known for capturing social realities, cultural identity, and human emotions, bridging regional storytelling with universal appeal.

A cultural icon of the coastal region, Richard Castelino’s career reflects the spirit of linguistic harmony and artistic innovation. The award recognises his pioneering role in expanding the scope of Kannada and regional cinema across languages and borders.

The announcement of the 2019 film awards brings long-awaited recognition to artists whose careers embody the creative excellence and cultural richness of Karnataka’s cinema.

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