The 70th National Film Awards have been announced, and the list of winners highlights the best talent in Indian cinema for 2024. The awards celebrate films, actors, directors, and other artists who have made significant contributions to the industry. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the major winners, their achievements, and what made them stand out in the world of cinema.
Best Feature Film: “Aatm”
The top honor of the night, Best Feature Film, was awarded to “Aatm,” a Malayalam language drama. This film captivated audiences with its compelling storyline and powerful performances. The movie was praised for its direction, screenplay, and the emotional depth of its characters. Winning the Best Feature Film award is a testament to the film’s excellence in storytelling and its impact on viewers.
Best Actor: Rishab Shetty
Rishab Shetty took home the award for Best Actor. His performance was deeply appreciated by both critics and audiences. Known for his dedication and ability to bring characters to life, Rishab’s win is well-deserved. His portrayal of complex emotions and nuanced acting set him apart, making him a standout in this year’s competition.
Best Actress: Nithya Menen and Manasi Parekh
The Best Actress award was shared between two incredibly talented actresses. Nithya Menen won for her role in the Tamil film “Thiruchitrambalam,” while Manasi Parekh was honored for her performance in the Gujarati film “Kachh Express.”
- Nithya Menen: Nithya’s role in “Thiruchitrambalam” was a portrayal of a strong, resilient character that resonated with many. Her natural acting style and ability to connect with the audience played a significant role in her win.
- Manasi Parekh: On the other hand, Manasi Parekh’s role in “Kachh Express” showcased her versatility as an actress. Her ability to embody her character’s struggles and emotions was key to her recognition at the awards.
Best Director: Sooraj Barjatya
The Best Director award was won by Sooraj Barjatya for his film “Uunchai.” Known for his mastery in crafting emotionally engaging stories, Barjatya delivered yet another impactful film. “Uunchai” was praised for its direction, the flow of the narrative, and the depth of its characters. This award recognizes Barjatya’s skill in bringing stories to life on the big screen.
Best Supporting Actress: Neena Gupta
Neena Gupta won the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in “Uunchai.” Her performance was described as heartfelt and authentic. Neena Gupta has consistently proven her acting prowess over the years, and this award adds another feather to her already illustrious cap.
Best Supporting Actor: Pawan Malhotra
Pawan Malhotra was honored with the Best Supporting Actor award for his role in the Haryanvi film “Faza.” Malhotra’s portrayal of his character was both powerful and moving, earning him critical acclaim. His ability to deliver strong performances in supporting roles is well recognized, and this award highlights his talent once again.
Best Hindi Film: “Gulmohar”
The award for Best Hindi Film went to “Gulmohar,” a film that features veteran actors Sharmila Tagore and Manoj Bajpayee. The film was celebrated for its narrative and performances. Manoj Bajpayee, who is known for his intense and layered roles, also received a Special Mention for his work in the film. “Gulmohar” was lauded for its storytelling and the way it handled its themes with sensitivity and depth.
Best Tamil Film: “Ponniyin Selvan: Part One”
“Ponniyin Selvan: Part One,” directed by Mani Ratnam, was named the Best Tamil Film. This epic historical drama was a massive hit and was praised for its grand scale, direction, and performances. A. R. Rahman, who composed the music for the film, won the National Film Award for Best Music Director for his work on this movie. The film’s music played a crucial role in enhancing the overall impact of the story.
Best Music Direction: A. R. Rahman and Pritam
This year, the Best Music Direction award was shared by two of the industry’s most celebrated composers.
- A. R. Rahman: A. R. Rahman won for his work in “Ponniyin Selvan: Part One.” Rahman’s music is known for its ability to evoke deep emotions and complement the narrative of the film. His work in this movie was no different, with the soundtrack becoming an integral part of the film’s success.
- Pritam: Pritam received the award for his music direction in “Brahmāstra: Part One.” The film’s music, especially the song “Kesariya,” became an instant hit and was loved by audiences across the country. Pritam’s compositions added to the film’s magical and mystical atmosphere, making his win well-deserved.
Best VFX: “Brahmāstra: Part One”
“Brahmāstra: Part One” also won the award for Best Visual Effects (VFX). The film was recognized for its groundbreaking use of VFX, which was essential in bringing the movie’s fantastical elements to life. The visual effects team played a significant role in creating the film’s unique visual experience, making this award a fitting recognition of their hard work.
Best Male Playback Singer: Arijit Singh
Arijit Singh won the National Award for Best Male Playback Singer for the song “Kesariya” from “Brahmāstra: Part One.” Arijit’s voice, known for its soulful and emotive quality, perfectly complemented the song’s romantic theme. His ability to convey deep emotions through his singing made him the ideal choice for this award.
Conclusion
The 70th National Film Awards celebrated the best of Indian cinema in 2024. The winners represent the diversity and richness of talent in the industry. From powerful performances by actors to exceptional direction and music, the awards highlighted the excellence achieved in various aspects of filmmaking. These awards not only honor the winners but also inspire others in the industry to continue striving for excellence. As we look forward to the future of Indian cinema, the National Film Awards remind us of the importance of storytelling and the impact it can have on audiences worldwide.
