Karnataka’s creative fireworks at Annecy 2026

By Pickle June 21, 2026

A vibrant delegation, policy-driven innovation, and a dozen bold new stories mark Karnataka’s transformative presence at the world’s premier animation marketplace in Annecy.

Each June, Annecy transforms from a tranquil lakeside town into the beating heart of global animation, as industry trailblazers gather for the world’s premier festival and marketplace. In 2026, a new chapter unfolds as Karnataka, India’s dynamic AVGC-XR powerhouse, claims its space on this global stage with a first-of-its-kind state pavilion and a high-profile, multi-sector delegation.

A Bold Homecoming for Indian Creativity

The Karnataka Pavilion at Annecy is more than just an exhibition stand—it is a vibrant showcase of the state’s creative and technological prowess, a rallying point for studios, startups, academic leaders, and policymakers. For the Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality (AVGC-XR) sector, this moment is a culmination of years of groundwork and visionary policy.

“Our delegation is a living testament to Karnataka’s belief in the power of creativity, technology, and entrepreneurship,” says Shri Priyank Kharge, Cabinet Minister for IT, BT, and E-Governance, Government of Karnataka. “At Annecy 2026, we want the world to see the best of India—from audacious young startups and emerging IP creators to globally recognized leaders who are shaping the future of the creative economy.”

The Karnataka Pavilion is expected to become a hive of activity. B2B meetings, investor networking, and spontaneous creative collaborations will take place alongside carefully curated panels and showcases. The mission is twofold: to position Karnataka as the AVGC-XR Capital of India, and to cement its reputation as a globally competitive creative hub.

The Power of Policy and Partnership

Karnataka’s AVGC-XR Policy 3.0, widely regarded as the most progressive in India, underpins the state’s global ambitions. The policy’s focus on talent development, industry incentives, and academia-industry linkages has built a robust ecosystem primed for international engagement.

“Strategic collaborations between government, industry, and academia are at the heart of our approach,” explains Dr. N. Manjula, IAS, Secretary to Government, Department of Electronics, IT, BT, and S&T. “By bringing these stakeholders together at Annecy, we are not just creating business opportunities—we are building an innovation pipeline that will deliver value for years to come.”

For the delegation, Annecy is a launchpad for global partnerships, content co-production, and market access. Industry veterans believe this exposure will catalyze a new era for Indian animation and IP creation.

“Annecy is a melting pot for groundbreaking ideas and new relationships,” notes Biren Ghose, President of ABAI and CEO of Astra Studios. “Karnataka’s Pavilion is the springboard for our studios, professionals, and startups to present their vision to the world. It’s about realizing the next level of success for Indian animation on a truly international canvas.”

Showcasing a Dozen Original Indian Stories

At the heart of Karnataka’s Annecy campaign is a dazzling portfolio of 12 original IPs—a tapestry of animated features, series, games, and digital platforms that reflect the state’s creative depth and imaginative range.

1. Lacher (Aesuloid Media)

Billed as India’s answer to sustainable kids’ brands, Lacher infuses play and learning with Indian craftsmanship. Unveiled at GAFX 2026, the IP has already turned heads for its innovative approach to eco-friendly design and storytelling. Supported by the Karnataka Government’s Elevate PoC Grant, Lacher is poised to charm global partners at Annecy.

2. Arena Originals (Arena Animation)

Arena Animation’s flagship initiative empowers students to develop and own creator-driven IPs. In partnership with industry stalwarts like Vaibhav Studios, Arena Originals is nurturing a new generation of storytellers ready to make their mark globally.

3. BroadVision

With a reputation built on successful European and international co-productions, BroadVision is not just a studio but a bridge between continents. Their Annecy pitch includes the much-anticipated animated feature Dudley & the Invasion of the Space Slugs, and the upcoming Esther—a retelling of a biblical legend for a global audience.

4. Fira (DEMEG)

A tale of a mother’s love set against a winter’s chill, Fira is a poignant 3D short film by Demeg Studios. Written and directed by Harsha Damerla, the film explores sacrifice and resilience, themes that resonate universally.

5. Neo Entertainment Studios

Two ambitious projects lead the charge:

Garuda – The Wings of the Divine: A mythological 3D animated feature tracing Garuda’s journey from birth to divine destiny.

Sacred Legacy: An action-adventure game inspired by Indian legends, inviting players into an immersive world of myth and heroism.

6. Nayanar (Plangle Studio)

Blending tradition and innovation, Nayanar represents a collaboration between Plangle Studio, ABAI, and Zygneic. The IP promises to bring Indian storytelling to the world stage, with a contemporary twist on heritage and culture.

7. Sanskriti

Two genres, one vision:

GuruCool: An animated series where a magical guru and his student traverse time, making Indian history accessible and fun for kids.

Devikatha – The Legend of the Goddess: An ambitious micro-drama series that uses animation and AI-driven visuals to explore the stories of the Navadurga.

8. Interactive Presentation Platform (Shining Cloud)

Shining Cloud’s platform transforms business pitches and communications using AR/VR and 3D storytelling. Designed for sectors such as real estate and automotive, this IP demonstrates Karnataka’s prowess in immersive technology.

9. Ollie and the Bubble Heads (Staunch Studios)

Aimed at children aged 6–10, this 3D animated series follows four humanoids from Earth’s mantle and their adventures with a surface-dwelling girl named Ollie. With universal humor and merchandisable characters, Ollie and the Bubble Heads is tailored for global appeal.

10. Studio Jatayu

With a focus on creator-owned, Indian-inspired narratives, Studio Jatayu is launching two IPs:

Academy of Gods (AOG): Young gods navigate fantasy and life lessons at an otherworldly academy.

NIKO: A manga-inspired fantasy where a young hero embarks on a coming-of-age journey.

11. Esther – Queen of Courage (Studio56)

Studio56 brings to life the biblical story of Esther as a grand animated feature, styled like a Disney fairy tale. Having won multiple Telly Awards, Studio56’s craftsmanship is globally acknowledged.

12. Zebu Animation

Wingstar: India’s first female superhero from Mizoram, set in a neo-noir universe.

The Wonderful Adventures of Suppandi: A 3D animated series breathing new life into Tinkle’s beloved comic character, blending Indian humor with international storytelling standards.

The Ripple Effect: What Karnataka Hopes to Achieve

The outcomes of Karnataka’s Annecy adventure could be far-reaching:

International business leads and strategic partnerships
Enhanced global visibility for Karnataka’s AVGC-XR sector
Co-production and distribution deals for Indian IPs
Attraction of global investment in the state’s creative economy
Deeper industry-academia linkages and talent development

Just as Annecy has become the annual summit for animation visionaries worldwide, Karnataka’s participation signals the rise of a new powerhouse in the global creative landscape.

Looking Beyond 2026

The narrative of Karnataka at Annecy is ultimately a story about ambition—the quest to transform inspiration into impact, and regional talent into global success. As delegates pitch, network, and learn at Annecy MIFA 2026, they carry with them the hopes of an ecosystem determined to make India a creative superpower.

With its unique blend of policy, partnership, and creativity, Karnataka is not just joining the global conversation on animation—it’s helping to write the next chapter.