Facts
- He was a Kannada literature postgraduate from the University of Mysore and earned eight gold medals during his studies.
- His first published short story appeared when he was studying in the eighth standard.
- He has worked as a professor of Kannada before becoming a full-time filmmaker.
- Three of his films have won National Film Awards for Best Feature Film in Kannada.
- He co-runs the Tent Cinema film school with his wife Shobha, helping train aspiring filmmakers and technicians.
- He has written novels, short stories and literary works in addition to making films.
- He has expressed a strong connection to his native village and has supported educational and cultural activities there.
- America America reportedly ran in theatres for a full year and won numerous awards.
