Colombia is preparing for the India Catalina Awards 2026, a ceremony that celebrates the best of Colombian television. This year marks the 42nd edition of the awards, which will take place on April 18 in Cartagena. The gala will be held as part of the Cartagena International Film Festival, one of the most important cultural events in the country and in Latin America.
With more than four decades of history, the India Catalina Awards have become the main recognition for the television and audiovisual industry in Colombia. Each year, they honor the best productions, talents, and creative proposals that have set the standard in national television, while also reflecting the sector’s evolution toward new platforms and digital formats.
Nomination process for the India Catalina Awards 2026
The 2026 edition began its official calendar on March 2 with the announcement of the pre-nominees, an initial stage that highlights the productions and professionals who stood out during the past year in Colombian television and audiovisual media.
Later, on March 18, the final list of nominees will be announced during a special event in Bogotá. At this stage, the productions that will compete for the awards in the different categories will be revealed, covering areas ranging from acting and directing to production, scriptwriting, and innovative formats.
Finally, on April 18, the awards ceremony will take place in Cartagena, where the winners in the various categories will be announced. The event typically brings together actors, directors, screenwriters, producers, and representatives from the country’s major television channels and audiovisual platforms, making it one of the most anticipated gatherings for the entertainment industry.
New categories and openness to digital formats
One of the main highlights of the 2026 awards is the introduction of new categories designed to adapt to the changes within the audiovisual ecosystem. In total, the competition will include 71 categories covering different areas of television and digital production.
Among the most notable innovations are recognitions for content created for digital platforms, such as web series and multiplatform productions. These categories reflect the growing consumption of audiovisual content through the internet and the increasingly important role of digital creators within the industry.
Additionally, distinctions related to sustainability in audiovisual production have been introduced. This trend seeks to promote responsible practices during filming and production processes. The initiative aims to encourage projects that integrate environmental and social criteria into their development.
Another key focus of the awards this year is strengthening audience participation in the selection process, allowing viewers to have a greater influence in some categories. This model aims to bring audiences closer to the content they consume and recognize the real impact of productions on popular culture.
A tribute to the career of actress Consuelo Luzardo
One of the most emotional moments of the ceremony will be the tribute to Colombian actress Consuelo Luzardo, who will receive the prestigious Victor Nieto Lifetime Achievement Award. This recognition highlights her extensive career spanning more than six decades in film, theater, and television.
The award is named after Victor Nieto, a key figure in Colombia’s cultural history and the founder of the Cartagena International Film Festival. The prize is granted to artists who have made significant contributions to the development of Colombia’s audiovisual industry.
Throughout her career, Luzardo has participated in numerous television and film productions that have left a lasting impression on audiences. Her work has been recognized by several generations, and her presence at the gala symbolizes the legacy of the artists who have helped shape the history of television in Colombia.