Abhilash Shetty (born 3 September 1996) is an Indian filmmaker, screenwriter, and actor.[1][2][3] He made a remarkable directorial debut with the critically acclaimed Kannada film Koli Taal.[4] followed by Naale Rajaa Koli Majaa, both films received widespread praise and were showcased at prestigious international film festivals.[5][6]
Early life
Shetty was born in Shimoga, Karnataka, into a Kannada speaking Bunt family.[7] He completed his schooling at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Shimoga, a prestigious boarding school. After earning his degree, he worked as a financial analyst for two years at Capgemini in Bengaluru. He eventually left his corporate career to pursue filmmaking.[8]
Career
Shetty started his filmmaking career by making short films, including Crony, Vinashi, and 2 Missed Calls. He wrote, directed, and edited his debut feature film, Koli Taal, in 2021.[9][10]
He directed his sophomore feature, Naale Rajaa Koli Majaa, in 2024. The film garnered attention at various international film festivals before its theatrical release in India on May 9, 2025.[11]
