The three-day International Prayagraj Film Festival 2026 concluded on November 1 at the MNIT Auditorium in Prayagraj, with Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya attending the closing ceremony as Chief Guest.
During the ceremony, Bharat Express News Network Director and Group Managing Editor Radheshyam Rai and producer Vandana Rai were honoured for the specially invited film Kawan Kasoor.
Special guests Dr Sanjay Masoom, Deepak Dua and actor Sushil Singh presented the recognition.
Organised by Madhubala Films, the festival aimed to promote Hindi cinema and regional languages, including Bhojpuri, Awadhi, Bundeli and Braj.
Around 81 films received recognition across several categories for their outstanding contributions.
Addressing the gathering, Keshav Prasad Maurya praised filmmaker Alok Malviya and expressed confidence in the global success of Kumbh Ka Sangam, based on Prayagraj and the Kumbh. He said the film could achieve success worldwide, similar to Hanuman Ansh, and assured the filmmaker of his support.
Padma Shri awardees Nalini Asthana and Kamalini Asthana, lyricist and screenplay writer Sanjay Masoom, and actor Sushil Singh presented trophies and certificates to the winners.
The cultural programme, however, featured Ganga Aarti, Prayagraj’s traditional Dhediya dance and folk performances from Bundelkhand and Braj.
Deepak Rai received the Best Director award for Buddh Ke Chaar Dham. Other recognised films, however, included Bhoori, Yashomati Maiya Ka Nandlala, Dhoort, Har Ghar Shuddh Jal, Kitaab, Bittu and Band Baaja Aur Sitara.
Madhubala Films president Alok Malviya, organising committee chairman Dr Amit Tripathi and Santosh Tiwari welcomed the guests.
Dr Garima Kushwaha delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging the guests, filmmakers and artists.
Also Read: International Prayagraj Film Festival 2026 Celebrates Regional Cinema, Cultural Heritage
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