The winners of the 70th National Film Awards were announced on August 16, 2024, at the National Media Center in New Delhi. This prestigious event, organized by the Directorate of Film Festivals under the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, recognized the finest talent in Indian cinema across various categories. The awards, which have been a significant part of India’s cinematic history since 1954, continue to honor films, actors, and technicians who excel in their craft.

Aattam Emerges as Best Feature Film

The Malayalam film Aattam stole the spotlight by winning the Best Feature Film award. This recognition is one of the highest honors in the National Film Awards, and it highlights the film’s outstanding storytelling, direction, and overall production quality. Aattam has been praised for its unique narrative and deep cultural insights, making it a standout in a year filled with many strong contenders. The film’s success reflects the richness of regional cinema in India, which continues to produce compelling stories that resonate with audiences both nationally and internationally.

Rishab Shetty and Nithya Menen Shine as Best Actor and Actress

In the acting categories, Rishab Shetty won the Best Actor award for his remarkable performance in the Kannada film Kantara. His portrayal of a complex character in the film has been widely acclaimed for its depth and authenticity. Shetty’s win is a testament to his talent and the growing influence of Kannada cinema in the Indian film industry.

The Best Actress award was uniquely shared between two exceptional talents. Nithya Menen was honored for her role in the Tamil film Thiruchitrambalam, where she delivered a powerful performance that captured the hearts of both the jury and the audience. Menen’s ability to bring her character to life with such nuance and emotion has been a highlight of the film.

The award was also shared with Manasi Parekh for her performance in The Kutch Express, a Gujarati film that has been celebrated for its strong storytelling and emotional depth. Parekh’s portrayal of a woman navigating personal challenges in a rapidly changing world struck a chord with viewers, earning her this prestigious accolade.

Sooraj Barjatya Wins Best Director for Uunchai

Veteran filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya took home the Best Director award for his film Uunchai. Known for his ability to craft emotionally resonant and visually captivating films, Barjatya’s latest work has been no exception. Uunchai has been praised for its direction, which seamlessly weaves together a compelling story with strong performances and beautiful cinematography. Barjatya’s win reinforces his status as one of India’s most respected and talented directors.

Notable Films and Their Awards: Ponniyin Selvan I, KGF 2, Brahmastra, and Aparajito

Several other films were recognized at the ceremony for their contributions to Indian cinema. Ponniyin Selvan I, directed by Mani Ratnam, won multiple awards, reflecting its success as a major cinematic achievement. The film, based on the historical novel by Kalki Krishnamurthy, has been celebrated for its grand scale, meticulous production design, and stellar performances.

KGF 2, the sequel to the blockbuster KGF: Chapter 1, also received recognition for its technical excellence and powerful storytelling. The film has been a massive success across India, with audiences and critics alike praising its action sequences, direction, and cinematography.

Brahmastra, a film that has pushed the boundaries of visual effects and fantasy storytelling in Indian cinema, won awards for its innovative use of technology and special effects. Directed by Ayan Mukerji, Brahmastra has been a significant milestone in the Indian film industry’s efforts to create world-class cinematic experiences.

Aparajito, a Bengali film, was another noteworthy winner, earning accolades for its direction, screenplay, and acting. The film’s success at the National Film Awards highlights the continued relevance and artistic excellence of Bengali cinema.

Complete List – National Film Awards 2024

Film Writing

Non-Feature Film Categories

The Legacy of the National Film Awards

The 70th National Film Awards have a rich history dating back to 1954, when they were first introduced as the State Awards. Initially, these awards focused on recognizing the best films in various regional languages. Over the years, the scope of the awards expanded to include honors for actors, directors, technicians, and writers, making them the most prestigious accolades in Indian cinema.

One of the most significant milestones in the history of the awards was in 1967, when the first Best Actor and Best Actress awards were introduced. Nargis was the first actress to win the Best Actress award for her performance in Raat Aur Din, a film that showcased her incredible range as an actor. Uttam Kumar, a legendary figure in Bengali cinema, won the first Best Actor award for his performances in Antony Firingee and Chiriyakhana.

The National Film Awards have since become an essential platform for recognizing excellence in Indian cinema. They aim to encourage the production of films that are not only technically and aesthetically superior but also socially relevant. The awards have played a crucial role in promoting the diverse and vibrant film culture of India, providing a stage for films from all regions and languages to be celebrated on a national level.

Each year, the awards are announced by three key juries: the Feature Film Jury, the Non-Feature Film Jury, and the Best Writing on Cinema Jury. These juries are composed of industry experts who carefully evaluate the submissions to ensure that only the most deserving talents are honored. This year, the Feature Film Jury was chaired by Rahul Rawail, a veteran filmmaker known for his contributions to Indian cinema. Nila Madhab Panda, an acclaimed director and producer, chaired the Non-Feature Film Jury, while Gangadhar Mudalair led the Best Writing on Cinema Jury.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Indian Cinema

As the 70th National Film Awards come to a close, the event serves as a reminder of the incredible talent and creativity present in the Indian film industry. The films and individuals honored this year reflect the dynamic and evolving nature of cinema in India, where new voices and stories continue to emerge and captivate audiences.

The success of regional films like Aattam, Kantara, and The Kutch Express at the National Film Awards also highlights the growing recognition and appreciation for diverse narratives and cultures within the country. As Indian cinema continues to evolve, the National Film Awards will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping its future by honoring those who push the boundaries of storytelling and filmmaking.