“There is immense talent among the participants who submitted entries. We will strive to create opportunities for them in the film industry.” – TFCC Chairman Dr. Prathani Ramakrishna Goud
The grand finale of the “TFCC Short Film Festival Awards 2026” was held on Sunday in Hyderabad. Organized under the leadership of Telangana Film Chamber of Commerce (TFCC) Chairman Dr. Prathani Ramakrishna Goud, the event witnessed the presence of Jury Chairperson Indraja, who was a special attraction of the evening.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ramakrishna Goud said that the quality and talent displayed by the new filmmakers amazed the jury. He assured that efforts would be made to provide opportunities for these talented youngsters in the film industry. He also announced that the awards festival would be conducted annually and that from next year, the first prize would be increased to ₹1 lakh.
Dr. Prathani Ramakrishna Goud’s Speaking “We initiated the TFCC Short Film Festival Awards 2026 as part of the celebrations marking 12 years of Telangana Statehood. Within just 15 days of announcing the awards, we successfully organized this event. We received over 60 entries. Jury Chairperson Indraja carefully watched every short film and selected the winners. Watching her dedication made us realize how a jury chairperson should truly perform the role.
All participants were young talents. We were amazed by the quality of their work, including both production and post-production. Creating such impressive content with limited resources is commendable. We will make every effort to help these talented individuals find opportunities in the film industry.
This year, we increased the prize money beyond what was initially announced and awarded ₹20,000 for First Prize, ₹15,000 for Second Prize, and ₹10,000 for Third Prize. From next year, the prize amounts will be increased to ₹1 lakh, ₹50,000, and ₹25,000 respectively.
Those who did not win should not feel discouraged. It does not mean their work was not good; awards can only be given to a few. We are also planning to establish a Film School under the Telangana Film Chamber. I thank all my friends and media colleagues who supported the successful organization of this event.”
Jury Chairperson Indraja’s Speaking
“Dr. Ramakrishna Goud initiated the TFCC Short Film Festival Awards 2026 with the noble intention of encouraging new talent. He has had a long journey in the industry as a distributor, producer, director, and actor. He has helped release many stalled films and continues to create opportunities for newcomers.
Since this initiative is being led by such a committed person, I gladly accepted the role of Jury Chairperson. Cinema represents your dreams and aspirations, so we carefully reviewed every entry before selecting the winners.
Those who did not win are equally talented. We selected only three winners because the awards were limited to three categories. It was a huge responsibility. I understand how valuable your hopes and dreams are. Throughout my career, I have always tried to help talented individuals get opportunities. Platforms like this can open doors for many more aspiring filmmakers.
I thank everyone who submitted entries. With determination and persistence, you will certainly achieve success in the film industry. Everything I have earned in terms of recognition and success has come from this industry, and this is my way of giving back.”
Other Dignitaries’ Remarks
Narasimha, SBI Bank Board Member, praised Dr. Ramakrishna Goud for supporting local artists and technicians through the Telangana Film Chamber and appreciated the initiative for encouraging young talent.
High Court Advocate Subhash Reddy described the awards as an excellent platform for talented newcomers to showcase their work and attract industry attention. He also pledged to sponsor the ₹1 lakh first prize next year.
TIMA President Rashmi Thakur appreciated the innovative initiatives of Dr. Ramakrishna Goud and expressed hope that the festival would reach more aspiring filmmakers every year.
Supreme Court Advocate and Producer Sharif said that Dr. Ramakrishna Goud has always been supportive of newcomers and announced that he would sponsor the ₹1 lakh first prize for next year.
Actress Aksha Khan praised Indraja’s dedication in reviewing all entries over three days before selecting the winners.
TFCC Vice President Gururaj congratulated the winners and encouraged those who did not win to continue striving for excellence, assuring them of future opportunities.
Fight Master Ravi appreciated Dr. Ramakrishna Goud’s commitment to nurturing talent and noted that he not only organizes such events but also provides opportunities in his own productions.
Award Winners
Media Awards:
Best Journalist (Print Media): Vinayaka Rao – Andhra Jyothy
Best Photo Journalist: Bhushan – Mana Telangana
Best Journalist (Electronic Media): Satish – ETV2
Best Journalist (Entertainment Channel): Raghu – Maa TV
Best Cameraman: Pasha – 10TV
Best Video Journalist: Nagaraju Yadav
Best Journalist (Digital Media): Rajababu
Best Film Magazine: Box Office – Chandu Ramesh
Best Film E-Paper: Vijay
Short Film Awards:
🥇 First Best Short Film: Seenugadi Cycle Story
🥈 Second Best Short Film: Cyber Slavery.
🥉 Third Best Short Film: Mathru Devobhava
