Welcome to the Karnataka International Film Festival (KIFF), an annual cinematic extravaganza set against the captivating backdrop of Hubballi – Dharwad, a cultural hub and administrative district of Karnataka, India. As the beating heart of North Karnataka's cultural scene, this festival unfolds in a city steeped in heritage, adding an extra layer of enchantment to the world of cinema.

Hosted by the distinguished Nava-Karnataka Film Academy, in collaboration with other prominent institutions, KIFF beckons you to embark on a global cinematic journey. From riveting documentaries to spellbinding feature films, the festival's diverse program promises to captivate cineastes and filmmakers alike.

Commencing with its inaugural edition from December 8th to 10th, 2022, KIFF swiftly established itself as a significant event, bolstered by the support of the Government of Karnataka. Over 40 exceptional films graced the screens, fostering an atmosphere of creative camaraderie and international cinematic appreciation.

Building upon this triumphant debut, the 2nd Karnataka International Film Festival – 2022 was also held from December 8th to 10th, presenting an expansive showcase of more than 180 remarkable films. Once again, the festival acted as a catalyst for cultural exchange, spotlighting cinema from Focus Countries including Bangkok, Dubai, Latin America, and the Maldives.

The 3rd Karnataka International Film Festival – 2023 took place on December 23rd and 24th, 2023, with over 145 submissions from across the globe. The selected films were screened and celebrated, continuing the tradition of excellence in cinematic storytelling.

Now, as the anticipation builds, we are thrilled to announce the upcoming 4th KIFF – 2024, scheduled for December 14th and 15th, 2024. This edition promises to transcend the boundaries of cinematic artistry. With a legacy of celebrating diverse voices and narratives, KIFF will continue to serve as a platform for sharing stories from around the world.

Looking ahead, the journey doesn't stop there. We are proud to unveil the 5th Karnataka International Film Festival – 2025, jointly presented by the Nava Karnataka Film Academy and the Universal Film Makers Council. Scheduled to take place on December 27th and 28th, 2025 (Saturday and Sunday), in Dharwad-Hubballi, this landmark edition marks the festival's continued evolution into a beacon of cinematic excellence and global cultural dialogue.

As the sun sets on the picturesque Bangalore, Karnataka, the screens come alive with the magic of cinema. Join us at KIFF, where the realm of storytelling knows no limits and the universal language of film unites us all. Your presence at this prestigious event not only honours the art of filmmaking but also contributes to the ever-growing tapestry of global narratives.

Awards & Prizes

Awards for Regional, National, International Movies & Short Movies

Best Screenplay

Best Playback Singer (Male)

Best Cinematography

Best Playback Singer (Female)

Best Editing

Best Lyricist

Best Music Direction

Best Choreography

Best Actor (Male)

Best Art Direction

Best Actor (Female)

Best Makeup

Best Popular Film

Best Costume Design

Best Children Film

Best Short Film

Best Animation Film

Best Short Film Direction

Best Film in other language of Assam

Best Music Director in Short Film

Best Performance in Negative Role

Best Documentary

Best Documentary Film Director

Best Performance in Comic Role

Best Film Critic

Best Supporting Actor (Male)

Best Writing on Cinema (Books)

Best Supporting Actor (Female)

Best Writing on Cinema (Published Articles)

Best Debut Director

Most commercially successful Film

Best Debut Actor (Male)

Rules & Terms

TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR SUBMISSION OF FILMS FOR AWARD

Last Date for Submission: 15th December 2025

The following are the Terms and Conditions to be complied with while submitting films for the 5th Karnataka International Film Festival – 2025, scheduled to take place on December 27 and 28, 2025, at Dharwad-Hubballi, Karnataka, India.

All applicants are required to invariably abide by these terms and conditions. An individual or corporation submitting a film is deemed to have committed the film for screening in accordance with the rules outlined below.

Eligibility and General Submission Rules

Any film completed after January 1, 2023, regardless of content, subject, or country of origin, is eligible for submission along with the prescribed entry fee.

All entry fees are non-refundable under any circumstances.

Multiple entries are allowed. More than one film can be submitted in the same category, but each entry must be accompanied by a separate entry fee.

Mere submission of a film does not guarantee selection for screening or awards.

A submission is considered complete only when download access to the film's preview screener is enabled.

Selection, Awards, and Screening

Official selections, nominees, and winners will be notified through the official KIFF website.

Being officially selected means the film has been appreciated by the jury panel. Selected filmmakers may use the KIFF festival logo for promotional purposes.

A nominated film will be privately screened by the KIFF Judging Panel and may not be screened publicly unless selected as a winner.

The “Best” films in each category will receive a laurel and certificate.

All winning films will be awarded a trophy and certificate, which will be presented during the Karnataka International Film Festival Awards Ceremony held at the festival.

Language and Format Requirements

Entries in languages other than Kannada must include English subtitles. Submissions without subtitles are liable for rejection.

A director/producer may submit multiple films across one or more categories, but each must be submitted separately with the appropriate fee.

Rights and Permissions

KIFF reserves the right to use excerpts from submitted films for promotional purposes within India only.

KIFF reserves the right to refuse any entry without explanation.

The applicant agrees to indemnify KIFF from any claims, liabilities, damages, or legal costs arising from copyright, trademark, or publicity issues related to the submitted content.

Non-Indian filmmakers receiving awards must bear additional courier charges for the delivery of their trophy and certificate (as per international shipping rates).

Judging and Category Rules

The decision of the jury for selection and awards is final and binding.

No refunds will be issued for films submitted in the wrong category.

Films submitted without the entry fee or proper media format may be disqualified at the discretion of the KIFF Programming Director or Executive Director.

The festival does not cover any expenses incurred by the filmmaker for submission or attendance.

Submission Materials & Promotion

KIFF has the right to use any trailer, teaser, or poster for the promotion of the submitted films.

An official trailer or poster, synopsis, and a viewable link to the film must be submitted.

It is the applicant’s responsibility to select the correct category to avoid disqualification.

Travel, Expenses, and Miscellaneous

KIFF does not accept responsibility for any financial commitments related to travel, lodging, or participation. All such expenses must be borne by the participant. However, organisers may assist with guidance and coordination if needed.

The festival reserves the right to reassign films to a different category if deemed appropriate.

These terms and conditions are subject to change without prior notice. All updates become effective immediately. Applicants are advised to check the official KIFF website regularly.

Submission of a film to the Karnataka International Film Festival – 2025 implies full acceptance of the terms and conditions listed above.