Karnataka is set to participate in Annecy International Animation Film Festival and Mifa 2026, the world’s leading platform for the animation and AVGC-XR industry. The Karnataka delegation will represent the state’s AVGC-XR ecosystem, comprising industry leaders, studios, startups, academic institutions and government representatives.
The Karnataka Pavilion aims to showcase the state’s capabilities in animation, visual effects, gaming, comics and extended reality (AVGC-XR) to the global market.
Participation will provide an opportunity to position Karnataka as a preferred destination for content creation, co-production, outsourcing and investment. The pavilion is expected to facilitate B2B meetings, networking sessions and strategic partnerships with international studios, broadcasters, distributors and technology companies. The delegation will actively promote Karnataka’s progressive AVGC-XR policies, robust talent pool and thriving innovation ecosystem.
A key focus will be to create avenues for global collaborations, market access and knowledge exchange for Karnataka-based companies and creative professionals. The initiative seeks to highlight the potential of Karnataka’s homegrown intellectual properties (IPs), emerging startups and established studios on an international stage.
Participation at Annecy & Mifa is aligned with the state’s vision of strengthening Karnataka’s position as the AVGC-XR Capital of India and a globally competitive creative hub. Insights gained from the event will contribute towards enhancing industry-academia linkages, fostering innovation and supporting the long-term growth of the sector in Karnataka.
The expected outcomes of this initiative include generating valuable international business leads and partnerships, while simultaneously enhancing the global visibility of Karnataka’s AVGC-XR ecosystem. It will open doors to opportunities for co-production and content distribution, fostering collaboration across borders. Additionally, this initiative aims to attract increased investor interest in Karnataka’s creative economy, strengthening its position as a hub for innovation. Finally, it will help build stronger global networks that connect industry leaders and academia, ensuring sustainable growth and knowledge exchange.
Government of Karnataka e-governance, home information technology and biotechnology cabinet minister Priyank Kharge said, “Karnataka has been at the forefront of the AVGC-XR industry for nearly two decades, and our AVGC-XR Policy 3.0 reflects our continued commitment to creating an ecosystem where creativity, technology, and entrepreneurship can thrive. At Annecy 2026, we are showcasing the best of India from promising startups and emerging IP creators to globally recognised industry leaders. Together, they represent the depth of talent and innovation that is positioning India as a major force in the global creative economy. We look forward to forging new partnerships and unlocking new opportunities that will accelerate the next chapter of growth for both Karnataka and India.”
Government of Karnataka electronics, information technology biotechnology and science & technology department, government secretary Dr. N. Manjula shared, “Karnataka’s Delegation at Annecy Mifa 2026 is showcasing the depth of talent, technological capabilities, and entrepreneurial spirit that define our AVGC-XR ecosystem. Through strategic collaborations between government, industry, and academia, we aim to create global opportunities for Karnataka’s creative enterprises and strengthen the state’s position as a preferred destination for innovation and investment in the AVGC sector.”
ABAI president and Astra Studios founder and CEO Biren Ghose added, “For 25 years, my Annecy experience has provided me with insights that this festival and market is renowned for. This event is all about relationships, new ideas and imagination and a market and screenings which becomes the annual melting pot of what’s groundbreaking from new talent and technologies that make the animation genre increasingly the most coveted and enduring IP in entertainment content. The government of Karnataka and ABAI are hosting an India Pavilion as a springboard for studios and professionals and its homegrown startups to present their services to realize the next level of success for Indian animation at Mifa 2026.”
Original IP showcase: Karnataka’s creative storytelling ecosystem
1. Aesuloid Media – Lacher
Aesuloid Media proudly launched Lacher at GAFX 2026, introducing a sustainable kids’ lifestyle brand focused on play, learning, and Indian craftsmanship. Supported by the Karnataka Government through the Elevate PoC Grant, the positive response at GAFX reinforced the brand’s vision. Aesuloid is also honoured to showcase its original IP at Mifa Annecy 2026 as part of the Karnataka Pavilion.
2. Arena Animation – Arena Originals
Arena Originals is an initiative by Arena Animation that empowers students to create and own original intellectual properties in animation. Developed in collaboration with industry partners such as Vaibhav Studios, the program provides mentorship across storytelling, character design, world-building, production planning, and pitching. By encouraging creator-owned content and entrepreneurship, Arena Originals aims to nurture globally relevant Indian stories while contributing to the growth of India’s AVGC-XR ecosystem.
3. BroadVision
Founded in 2008, Broadvision has been a pioneer in European and International co-productions, with over 11 successful co-productions across Germany, Italy, Belgium, Luxembourg, Australia and Brazil, apart from service projects around the world. In fact, the 2026 Annecy selected feature film – Dudley & the Invasion of the Space Slugs was made possible for green light only with Broadvision’s co-production investment. Over the years, Iconic shows such as Mia & Me, 100% Wolf and The Black Diamond Race, and feature films such as Mission Santa, Mia Movie – The Hero of Centopia, have been championed by Broadvision. The exciting slate for 2027 includes the much awaited Esther movie, which tells the well known biblical story to the global audience, and Arvil – Poles Apart feature film. Also, the unveiling of the new Broadvision Kids & Family strategy is set to bring some very exciting possibilities for the world of animation
4. DEMEG – Fira
Fira is a 3D animated short film by Demeg Studios, written and directed by Harsha Damerla. The film tells a poignant story rooted in the universal theme of a mother’s unconditional love and the sacrifices she makes for her child. Amidst the unforgiving cold of winter, Fira is a heartfelt tale of courage, survival, and the enduring power of a mother’s bond.
5. Neo Entertainment Studios:
Garuda – The Wings of the Divine
A mythological 3D animated feature film inspired by the legendary story of Garuda. The film follows his journey from birth to becoming Lord Vishnu’s divine vehicle, exploring themes of courage, sacrifice, freedom, and destiny through cinematic storytelling.
Sacred Legacy – Awakening the Divine
A mythological action-adventure game inspired by ancient Indian legends. Combining exploration, combat, storytelling, and divine powers, the game invites players to uncover forgotten legacies while experiencing India’s rich cultural heritage.
6. Plangle Studio – Nayanar
Unveiled at GAFX 2026, Nayanar marks Plangle Studio’s vision of blending culture, creativity, and innovation through compelling storytelling. Supported by ABAI and Karnataka’s creative ecosystem, the project now advances to Annecy 2026, representing Indian storytelling on a global platform in collaboration with Zygneic.
7. Sanskriti:
GuruCool
GuruCool follows a magical Guru and his young student on exciting journeys through time and space, exploring India’s history, culture, and legendary personalities. Combining adventure, humour, and vibrant animation, the series makes learning engaging, educational, and entertaining for young audiences.
Devikatha – The Legend of the Goddess
A mythology micro-drama series that brings the Nine Divine Forms of Devi (Navadurga) to life through live-action storytelling, animation, and AI-powered visuals. Each episode explores the Goddess’s origins, powers, and timeless wisdom, celebrating courage, devotion, and feminine strength through immersive cinematic storytelling.
8. Shining Cloud – Interactive Presentation Platform
Shining Cloud has developed an advanced Interactive Presentation Platform that transforms traditional sales and communication experiences through immersive visualization, AR/VR, interactive 3D content, and digital storytelling. Designed for industries including real estate, automotive, engineering, and infrastructure, the platform helps businesses engage customers through interactive and experience-driven presentations.
9. Staunch Studios
Bengaluru-based Staunch Studios continues its focus on original storytelling with Ollie and the Bubble Heads, a 3D animated series for children aged six to ten. The story follows four humanoids from Earth’s mantle who journey to the surface in search of answers to mysterious events and meet a young girl named Ollie, who helps them find their way home. Combining universal visual humour with highly merchandisable characters, the series is designed for global audiences.
10. Studio Jatayu:
Niko
Niko is Studio Jatayu’s original manga-inspired IP, following the adventures of a young hero in a unique fantasy world. Unveiled at GAFX 2026 and supported by STPI and Octane CoE STPI Guwahati, the project reflects the studio’s ambition to create globally relevant stories while maintaining a distinctive Indian creative identity.
Academy of Gods
Studio Jatayu’s flagship IP, Academy of Gods, reimagines Indian mythology through the adventures of young gods learning under Guru Brihaspati. Blending fantasy, humour, and life lessons, the property is designed for expansion across comics, animation, licensing, and merchandise.
11. Studio56 – Esther – Queen of Courage
Studio56 Animation is currently producing Esther – Queen of Courage feature film, bringing the well-known biblical story of the brave immigrant girl who goes on to become the powerful Queen of Persia, told like a Disney fairy tale! Other productions include The Last Dinosaur feature film, The Black Diamond Race OTT series pioneering a stunning toon-shaded look and Flora Buxton & Bear preschool show. Studio56 won the Telly Gold for Animation Quality for the second time in 2026 for their work on The Black Diamond Race, winning it previously in 2021 for their work on 100% Wolf series. Studio56 also won five Telly silvers for almost every department of animation, retaining its position as the gold standard for animation quality globally.
12. Zebu Animation:
Wingstar
Wingstar is an action-adventure series featuring India’s first female superhero from Mizoram. Set in a neo-noir world, the story follows Mapui, a 15-year-old aspiring footballer with dreams that feel just within reach. But when she puts on the suit, she must grow into something larger than herself and carry the weight of becoming Wingstar.
The wonderful adventures of Suppandi
The Wonderful Adventures of Suppandi is a 3D animated series developed by Zebu Animation Studios, inspired by the beloved Indian comic character from Tinkle. This original Indian IP brings Suppandi’s world to life with rich visuals, humour, and heart, staying true to his cultural roots while appealing to a global audience. The series celebrates everyday simplicity through stories that are both entertaining and endearing.
