Rashmika Mandanna to present at 2026 Crunchyroll Anime Awards
What's the story
Actor Rashmika Mandanna has been announced as a presenter at the 2026 Crunchyroll Anime Awards in Tokyo. The awards ceremony is one of the biggest annual events celebrating Japanese animation and will take place on May 23 at the Grand Prince Hotel Shin Takanawa. This year marks its 10th edition with a diverse lineup of presenters from different continents and industries.
Star-studded lineup
Other presenters include Japanese, Mexican, Australian actors
Mandanna is part of a first wave of presenters that includes Japanese actor Asuka Saito, Mexican singer and actor DANNA, cosplayer Enako, actor Kasumi Arimura, comedy duo Mitorizu, actor Nanase Nishino, Brazilian esports host Nyvi Estephan, and Wu-Tang Clan founder RZA. Hollywood actor Winston Duke and Australian singer-songwriter Hannah Bahng are also on the list.
Global recognition
'India's sweetheart': Why Mandanna was chosen by Crunchyroll
Mandanna's inclusion in this prestigious lineup is a testament to her global recognition. She has been called "India's sweetheart" by Crunchyroll, which reflects her popularity across Telugu, Hindi, and Kannada cinema. Mandanna is a huge anime fan and previously presented at the ceremony in 2024.
Fan voting
Here's how you can vote for your favorite anime
Fan voting for the 2026 Crunchyroll Anime Awards is currently open until April 15. Fans can vote daily through Crunchyroll, the official Anime Awards website, and MyAnimeList. The nominees for Anime of the Year include DAN DA DAN Season 2, Gachiakuta, My Hero Academia Final Season, Takopi's Original Sin, The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 and The Summer Hikaru Died.
Ceremony details
Musical tributes will be part of the ceremony
The 2026 Crunchyroll Anime Awards will also feature musical tributes. Japanese singer Dean Fujioka will open the show with History Maker from Yuri!!! on ICE, the first Anime of the Year winner. Rock band Porno Graffitti will perform a tribute to celebrate the 10th anniversary of My Hero Academia. Voice actor Sally Amaki and entertainer Jon Kabira will return as hosts for this year's ceremony.