Mukesh Chhabra to be Honoured with the Honorary Award of Excellence at 12th Rajasthan International Film Festival (RIFF) 2026

The 12th edition of the Rajasthan International Film Festival (RIFF), recognised by the Federation of Film Societies of India (FFSI) North Region, and organised with the support of the Rajasthan Tourism Department, Department of Art and Culture Government of Rajasthan and in association with Stage OTT will be held from 31 January to 4 February 2026 at Miraj Cinemas, Bluecity Mall, Jodhpur, Rajasthan. The theme of RIFF 2026 is “Cinemasthan – Your Lens, Our Rajasthan.” The festival will also mark a decade of RIFF’s successful journey in promoting cinema in Rajasthan.

Founder & Festival Director of the Rajasthan International Film Festival, Somendra Harsh, announced that this year the “ RIFF 2026 Honorary Award of Excellence for Contribution to Indian Cinema ” will be conferred upon renowned Bollywood casting director and filmmaker Mukesh Chhabra.

Mukesh Chhabra will be attending the Rajasthan International Film Festival, and on this occasion, he will conduct a special masterclass titled “ Discovering the Craft of Acting ” on 3rd February at Miraj Cinemas.During the session, he will share valuable insights into the nuances of acting in the film industry, the audition process, understanding characters, and practical experiences on preparing oneself as an actor.

This masterclass is specially designed for aspiring and emerging actors, film students, and young artists who seek a realistic understanding of the industry along with professional guidance.

Mukesh Chhabra is among the most respected casting directors, actors, and film directors in Indian cinema. He began his career as an assistant casting director and soon established a distinct identity in the industry. He has cast for over 300 films and web series, including Chillar Party, Rockstar, Gangs of Wasseypur, Queen, Delhi Crime, Sacred Games, and Dhurandhar. Known for discovering and nurturing authentic new talent, he made his directorial debut in 2020 with Dil Bechara. His contribution is considered instrumental in shaping the new generation of Indian cinema.

RIFF Film Club Managing Trustee and RIFF Founder, Mr. Somendra Harsh stated, “This year, for the 12th edition of RIFF, the Rajasthan Tourism Department, Department of Art Literature and Culture, Government of Rajasthan, Mehrangarh Museum Trust, Stage OTT and Miraj Cinemas have come on board as partners, with Miraj Cinemas joining as the venue and multiplex partner. The inauguration ceremony of the 12th Rajasthan International Film Festival 2026 will be held on 31 January 2026 at Miraj Cinemas,Jodhpur.

Following the inauguration, a wide range of activities including film screenings, open forums, talk shows, workshops, exhibitions, viewing room –  Black Box at the RIFF Film Market, along with several other events, will be organised from 31 January to 4 February 2026. The grand closing ceremony and RIFF Award Night 2026 will take place on 4 February 2026 at Jaipol, Mehrangarh Fort and Chokelao Mahal Terrace, Jodhpur, in collaboration with the Mehrangarh Museum Trust.”

Entries are now invited for the 12th Rajasthan International Film Festival – RIFF 2026 in the categories of short films, documentaries, animation films, music video albums, vertical films, web series, ad films, feature films, regional films, Rajasthani films, and international films. Films can be submitted through www.riffjaipur.org and FilmFreeway. The last date for submission is 31 December 2025.