Jayathirtha is an Indian theater activist, social worker and filmmaker. He is a well known director and playwright in Indian theatre world and Kannada films. He is known for his movies Olave Mandara, Tony, Beautiful Manasugalu, and the most recent blockbuster Bell Bottom. He also stands out for his work as a director and playwright, as well as for acting in as many as 4,200 street plays, that were presented with social message regarding various issues.