Top 10 directors in Kannada film industry

Last updated on January 26th, 2024 at 12:28 pm

Some of the most iconic movies of recent times have come not only from Bollywood but also other film industries pan India. Kannada film industry is one such source that has put the regional cinema to forefront by the movies it has presented. We have here compiled a list of top 10 directors of the Kannada film industry who stand out for their skills to make some unique cinema.

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1. Prashanth Neel

Prashanth Neelakantapuram is well known for his two part film series – KGF Chapter 1 (2018) and KGF Chapter 2 (2022) – the latter being the highest grosser of all time in Kannada film industry. The man behind the lens has been reportedly paid Rs 20 crores for KGF Chapter 2. Due to his surged demand, Neel is now charging Rs 50 crore for his upcoming venture featuring Jr NTR.

2. ‘Duniya’ Suri

Suri came to be known as ‘Duniya’ Suri after success of his debut film Duniya. His latest movie ‘Popcorn Monkey Tiger’ (2020) has registered huge success at box office. Suri reportedly charges Rs 2.6 crores for his movies.

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3. Pawan Kumar

The big changes in Kannada film industry can be highly attributed to Pawan Kumar. His second movie ‘Lucia’ was an iconic movie that set a milestone in the industry. He is considered to be focal point of new breed of directors in Kannada industry. The net worth of Pawan Kumar is said to be approximately Rs 6.5 crore.

4. Rishab Shetty

One of the most versatile directors in Kannada film industry, he is the man behind ‘Kirik Party’, one of the highest grossing Kannada movies. Earlier an actor with movies like Lucia, Shetty soon turned into direction. His net worth is estimated around Rs 6 crore.

5. Manso Re

Manjuntha Somashekara Reddy, commonly known as Manso Re is the director of National Award winning movie ‘Harivu’. His movies are based on human endurance and will power. His latest movie ACT-1978 has been a huge success on box office.

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6. Upendra Rao

Known for making movies based on Indian politics themes and society, Upendra Rao has turned to politics. He formed his party Uttama Prajakeeya Party (UPP) that is based on citizen centric administration. He is said to charge Rs 6 crore for directing a movie.

7. Yograj Bhat

Referred to as ‘pride of Kannada industry’, Yograj Bhat is most known for his 2006 film ‘Mungaru Male’. It was the longest running movie at a multiplex in the industry.

8. Sudeep

Sudeep is a famous actor, director, producer and television presenter. Known for his impactful voice, his work is mainly in Kannada industry with appearances in Hindi, Telugu and Tamil industries as well. He is also host of Bigg Boss Kannada. He is said to charge close to Rs 6 crore per movie.

9. Puttanna Kanagal

He is said to be one of the greatest filmmakers in the Kannada film industry. Majority of his movies are considered to be a milestone in the Sandalwood industry.

10. Guruprasad

He made its directorial debut with movie ‘Mata’ and then later directed ‘Eddelu Manjunatha’.

Which names were a surprise to you and which were quite expected to make it to the list? Share your favorite directors of the Kannada film industry and join the conversation by commenting in the section below.