Chennai:

The Madras Art Guild 2026 Short Film Festival, supported by the Yuj Foundation and organized with the SA Film Academy, has drawn a record-breaking 300+ entries from independent filmmakers across India and overseas. The festival will be held from March 2–5, 2026 at VR Chennai.

A distinguished jury, including National Award-winning editor B. Lenin, director R.V. Udhaya Kumar, cinematographer and educator G.P. Krishna, and acclaimed Tamil filmmaker Perarasu, will evaluate the submissions.

The festival provides a platform for both student and professional filmmakers to showcase original short films, highlighting bold storytelling, youth creativity, and innovative ideas. Entries cover genres such as drama, documentary, comedy, thriller, romance, and art films, spanning fiction, animation, experimental, documentary, and mobile filmmaking. Submissions include a range of Indian and international languages, reflecting the festival’s inclusive approach.

In addition to screenings, the festival offers masterclasses, interactive discussions, and Q&A sessions with student filmmakers. Winning films will be showcased at VR Chennai, culminating in an awards ceremony recognizing achievements in Best Film, Best Director, Best Concept, and Jury Mention.

Founded in 2019, Madras Art Guild has welcomed over 4.06 million visitors, fostering Chennai’s evolving cultural landscape. The festival is free and open to all.