By Carita Miller

Detroit, long known for its automotive and musical legacy, has found a new ambassador in the world of cinema. Tel K. Ganesan, a visionary entrepreneur turned filmmaker, is redefining the industry by bridging Hollywood and Indian cinema while championing local talent. As the founder and CEO of Kyyba Films, Ganesan has brought global narratives to life while ensuring his beloved Detroit remains a focal point of his storytelling.

For over 35 years, Ganesan has called Detroit home. While the city is often associated with cars and Motown, he saw its potential as a thriving hub for cinema. He has brought the city's rich landscape to the silver screen with productions like Christmas Coupon and Devil’s Night: Dawn of the Nain Rouge. By filming in Detroit, Ganesan not only showcases the city’s visual appeal but also provides opportunities for local talent, reinforcing his belief in Michigan as an emerging film powerhouse.

Born in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, Ganesan’s path to Hollywood was anything but conventional. After earning a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering from Wayne State University and an Executive MBA from the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business, he established Kyyba Inc., an IT and engineering services firm. His success in the tech sector laid the groundwork for his passion project—Kyyba Films, a company dedicated to producing globally resonant stories.

Ganesan’s latest venture, Trap City, marks his directorial debut. Set to release on December 13, 2024, the film tells a gripping story of fame, morality, and redemption in the music industry. With a stellar cast, including Michigan native Brandon T. Jackson (Tropic Thunder), Grammy-winning artist Jay “Jeezy” Jenkins, and Tamil comedy sensation Yogi Babu in his Hollywood debut, Trap City epitomizes the cross-cultural storytelling that Ganesan champions.

Ganesan’s commitment to Indian cinema goes beyond personal passion; it’s a mission. He has played a pivotal role in introducing South Indian talent to Hollywood, including:

- Napoleon Duraisamy, who made his Hollywood debut in Devil’s Night: Dawn of the Nain Rouge.

- G.V. Prakash Kumar, a composer and actor brought to Western audiences through Ganesan’s vision.

- Yogi Babu, the Tamil comedic powerhouse, who takes on a unique Hollywood role in Trap City.

Through Kyyba Films, Ganesan is ensuring that Indian artists find their place on the international stage.

Ganesan’s impact isn’t confined to film. His ventures extend into entrepreneurship, mentorship, and philanthropy:

- Pitch Club: A Kyyba initiative that mentors’ startups and entrepreneurs across Michigan.

- Detroit Fintech Challenge: A platform connecting innovators with industry leaders.

- TiECon Detroit: Michigan’s largest entrepreneur conference, empowering business minds through education and networking.

- Kyyba Kidz Foundation: A charitable initiative providing resources and education to underprivileged youth.

His unwavering dedication to innovation and community development has made him a pillar in Detroit’s entrepreneurial landscape.

Under Ganesan’s leadership, Kyyba Films has produced and distributed a diverse slate of films that resonate both locally and internationally. Some of his notable projects include:

- Christmas Coupon (2019): A heartfelt holiday story filmed in Detroit.

- Devil’s Night: Dawn of the Nain Rouge (2020): A thriller featuring local talent and introducing Napoleon to Hollywood.

- 18½: An award-winning political thriller that gained international recognition.

- The Marksman: Distributed widely in India, marking a milestone for Hollywood content in South Asia.

Ganesan is just getting started. With Trap City set for release and several upcoming projects on the horizon, his influence in the film industry continues to grow. He remains steadfast in his mission to elevate Detroit’s presence in Hollywood, champion Indian talent, and create meaningful cinema that transcends borders.

As Detroit’s cultural ambassador to Hollywood, Tel K. Ganesan is not just making films—he’s making history.