Mysuru: The cultural city of Mysuru is set to host the 4th edition of the Paridrishya International Short Films & Documentaries Festival – 2026 from February 20 to 22, with the iconic Maharaja College Grounds chosen as the venue to accommodate a larger and more diverse audience.
Organised by the Mysuru Cinema Society (MCS), the festival has steadily evolved into a prominent international platform for short films and documentaries, drawing filmmakers, students and cinema enthusiasts from India and abroad.
Founded in 2022, the Mysuru Cinema Society is dedicated to promoting film appreciation and encouraging meaningful engagement with cinema as an art form. Through curated screenings, workshops and interactions, the Society has been instrumental in nurturing young talent and enriching Mysuru’s cultural landscape.
Paridrishya’s growth over the years has been significant. The inaugural edition featured 150 films from 10 countries, while the second edition received over 300 entries from 20 countries. The third edition marked a major leap with over 3,100 films from 109 countries. Continuing this upward trajectory, the 2026 edition has received more than 3,000 film submissions from 114 countries, underlining the festival’s expanding global reach.
Festival Director Padmavathi S. Bhat, who is also the Honorary Secretary of MCS, said the festival is designed to offer a holistic cultural and learning experience for audiences, students and aspiring filmmakers alike.
In addition to curated Indian and international film screenings, Paridrishya 2026 will feature masterclasses by industry experts, panel discussions, student interactions, and a range of artistic and cultural experiences. The festival will also host food stalls, exhibitions, musical evenings, and award ceremonies recognising outstanding cinematic talent.
The organisers noted that the festival aims to strengthen cinematic appreciation, encourage cultural dialogue and provide a meaningful platform for emerging filmmakers. With its mix of cinema, learning and public engagement, Paridrishya 2026 is expected to attract wide participation from Mysuru and neighbouring regions.
More details are available at www.mysorecinemasociety.com with updates on Instagram @mysuru_cinema and Facebook Mysuru Cinema Society.