In a much-anticipated event marking a significant milestone in Indian cinema, the 70th National Film Awards ceremony is set to unfold on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, in New Delhi. Annually, the event stands as a platform not only to honor the exceptional talents within the Indian film industry but also to celebrate the vast cultural tapestry and artistic diversity that Indian cinema offers to audiences around the globe.
The winners of this year’s awards were unveiled on August 16, sparking excitement and anticipation among filmmakers, actors, and fans alike. The awards are set to recognize and celebrate a stunning array of films and performances. Among the leading films to be honored this year are Aattam, Kantara, KGF: Chapter 2, Saudi Vellakka, Ponniyin Selvan Part 1, and Brahmastra: Part 1 – Shiva. Each film, through its unique storytelling and compelling performances, showcases the profound creativity and wide-ranging talent prevalent in the industry today.
For those eager to witness the grand celebrations, the National Film Awards ceremony will be broadcast live at 3 pm on DD National on October 8. Additionally, the live event will be streamed on DD National’s YouTube channel, providing access to audiences worldwide, highlighting the global interest in Indian cinema. Such an arrangement ensures that the fervor of the event resonates not just across India, but far beyond its borders.
One of the distinguished highlights of this year’s ceremony is the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the highest honor in Indian cinema, which will be presented by President Droupadi Murmu to veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty. A stalwart of the Indian film industry with a career spanning several decades, Mithun Chakraborty’s contributions have significantly shaped the landscape of Indian cinema. His charismatic performances and versatility have left an indelible mark, making this recognition a heartfelt tribute to his enduring legacy.
The excitement surrounding this year’s awards is further amplified by the achievements of actor Rishab Shetty, who will be receiving the Best Actor award for a Feature Film.
. His remarkable performance in the Kannada folk action thriller, Kantara, which he also directed, has not only captured the hearts of audiences but also gained critical acclaim. Kantara will also receive the honor of Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment, underscoring its widespread popularity and cultural resonance.
The Malayalam film industry also enjoys a moment in the spotlight with Anand Ekarshi’s suspense chamber drama, Aattam. The film has garnered several prestigious awards, including Best Film, Best Editing, and Best Screenplay. Ekarshi’s work exemplifies the innovative and nuanced storytelling that characterizes Malayalam cinema, echoing a broader narrative of dynamism and diversity within the Indian film industry.
In the category of Best Actress in a Feature Film, the accolade is shared between two extraordinary talents. Nithya Menen is recognized for her role in the Tamil comedy-drama Thiruchitrambalam, while Manasi Parekh is honored for her performance in the Gujarati drama film, Kutch Express. This tie highlights the extraordinary range of talent among female actors, reflecting the strength and diversity of female voices in Indian cinema.
Director Sooraj R Barjatya is celebrated with the award for Best Director owing to his work in the Hindi adventure drama, Uunchai. Known for his impactful storytelling and memorable films, Barjatya’s directorial vision in Uunchai offers a profound blend of adventure and emotion, earning accolades from audiences and critics alike.
As the 70th National Film Awards ceremony draws near, it promises not merely to distribute awards but to shine a spotlight on the sheer scale and depth of talent that defines Indian cinema today. This gala event is a celebration of artistic expression, cultural stories, and the collective spirit of Indian filmmaking, dedicated to audiences who savor its magic in theatres and homes around the world.
