Nagathihalli Chandrashekar is a prominent Indian filmmaker, writer, producer, lyricist and actor who predominantly works in the Kannada film industry. Born in Nagathihalli in Karnataka's Mandya district, he developed a strong interest in Kannada literature and the arts from a young age. He completed his postgraduate studies in Kannada literature at the University of Mysore and reportedly received eight gold medals and two cash awards during his postgraduate education. Before moving completely into filmmaking, he worked as a Kannada professor.
Chandrashekar began his film career as a screenplay writer with Kadina Benki in 1986, a film that won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Kannada. He later made his directorial debut with Undu Hoda Kondu Hoda. His notable films include Kotreshi Kanasu, America America, Hoomale, Nanna Preethiya Hudugi, Amrithadhare and Maathaad Maathaadu Mallige. Three of his films—Kotreshi Kanasu, America America and Hoomale—won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Kannada. He has also acted in films including Mata, Milana, Addhuri and Breaking News.