Honorable Guests - 2026

Mika Singh

Mika Singh is one of India’s most celebrated playback singers, known for delivering countless Bollywood blockbuster hits that have defined the sound of modern Indian cinema. With his powerful voice, energetic stage presence, and unmistakable musical style, he has become a global crowd‑favorite across concerts, films, and streaming platforms.

Over the years, Mika has contributed chart‑topping songs to major Bollywood productions, collaborated with leading music composers and filmmakers, and built a reputation as one of the industry’s most dynamic performers. His music continues to inspire millions and remains a highlight wherever he performs.

Mika Singh will be singing live in concert on the 4th September.

Ananta Jalil

Ananta Jalil is a prominent Bangladeshi actor, filmmaker, and producer known for his larger‑than‑life screen presence and dedication to elevating Bangladeshi cinema. Rising to fame through a series of action‑packed and emotionally driven films, he has become one of the industry’s most recognizable faces.

As both an artist and a visionary film producer, Ananta has contributed to shaping modern Dhallywood with ambitious projects, high‑energy storytelling, and a commitment to bringing Bangladeshi films to international audiences. His work continues to inspire fans across borders and reflects his passion for cinema, culture, and creative innovation.

Ananta Jalil will be visiting the festival with his latest film

"THE LEADER"

Khadiza Parvin Barsha

Khadiza Parvin Barsha is a respected Bangladeshi actress, producer, and business leader, widely known for her influential role in both cinema and corporate management. As the Managing Director of AB Group and Monsoon Group, she has played a key part in driving major business initiatives while simultaneously contributing to the growth of Dhallywood through her work as a film producer. Barsha has starred in several notable films alongside her husband, Ananta Jalil, earning recognition for her strong screen presence and dedication to storytelling. Her unique combination of artistic talent and executive leadership makes her a standout figure in Bangladeshi entertainment and industry.

She will be visiting the festival with her latest film

"THE LEADER"

Sonali Doshi

Sonali Doshi is a Boston‑based Indian‑American creative curator and cultural connector whose work bridges Indian artistry with global audiences through music, storytelling, live events, and film. She founded Sonali’s Music Room during the pandemic, transforming it from a personal passion into an international platform featuring renowned performers and intimate artist conversations. Her credibility in the industry has led to major outreach partnerships for concerts with icons like A.R. Rahman, Arijit Singh, and Shreya Ghoshal, while her role as a podcast host expands Indian narratives worldwide. In 2026, she debuted at the Cannes Film Festival as Co‑Producer of the Indo‑American feature Bombay Stories, marking a natural evolution of her mission to elevate Indian creativity on the world stage. Through live hosting, media collaborations, and cross‑cultural storytelling, Sonali continues to build platforms that connect people, artists, and cultures across borders.

She will be visiting the festival with her latest film

"Bombay Stories"

Chandrakant Singh

Chandrakant Sinngh is an Indian filmmaker and producer known for directing Hindi films including Rama Rama Kya Hai Dramaaa, Bin Bulaye Baraati, Be Careful, Six X and Main Zaroor Aaunga. His most recent feature, Kya Masti Kya Dhoom, premiered on Waves OTT in December 2024. Alongside feature films, Chandrakant has been actively involved in the international film festival circuit, regularly attending festivals across the world. He has also directed and produced several short films, with his work being showcased at prestigious platforms including the Cannes Film Festival, reflecting his continued engagement with both Indian and international cinema.

Raised in Bengal and based in Mumbai, Swati is a journalist focusing on legal affairs. In her debut short, she explores what draws us to journey beyond the familiar, discovering it as she walks the original route to Santiago de Compostela—the Camino Primitivo.