Actor and filmmaker Rishab Shetty is set to be honoured with the Leadership in Cinema Award at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2026, recognising his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema through stories deeply rooted in culture and tradition.

The prestigious honour celebrates Shetty's role in taking authentic Indian narratives to international audiences while remaining true to the country's rich cultural heritage. His work has been widely appreciated for blending artistic vision with stories that resonate across generations and borders.

The award will be presented to Shetty on 13 August, when he attends the festival as one of its marquee guests.

Expressing his gratitude, Shetty said he was deeply honoured to receive the recognition.

“I am deeply honoured to receive the Leadership in Cinema Award from the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. Storytelling has always been my way of celebrating our culture, our traditions and the communities that inspire us.”

Best known for acclaimed films such as Kantara and Ricky, Shetty has established himself as one of the most influential voices in contemporary Indian cinema, earning praise for creating narratives that are both culturally grounded and universally compelling.