The 70th National Film Awards ceremony took place in New Delhi on October 8, celebrating some of the finest achievements in Indian cinema. The prestigious event honored a wide array of talent from across the country, with luminaries like Mani Ratnam, Rishab Shetty, AR Rahman, and Nithya Menen receiving recognition from President Draupadi Murmu.
South Stars Shine at the 70th National Film Awards
Key winners from South Indian cinema included Rishab Shetty, who won the Best Actor award for his stellar performance in Kantara, and Nithya Menen, who received the Best Actress award for her role in Thiruchitrambalam. The ceremony also saw legendary filmmaker Mani Ratnam and music maestro AR Rahman receiving accolades, adding to the grandeur of the event.
Rishab Shetty arrived in traditional South Indian attire, donning a silky shirt and veshti, accompanied by his wife Pragathi Shetty. His portrayal in Kantara was hailed for its emotional depth, earning him the Best Actor award. Nithya Menen, equally stunning in a white saree, marked her first-ever National Award win for her role in Thiruchitrambalam, further cementing her place as one of the most talented actresses in Indian cinema.
Celebrating Diversity in Indian Cinema
The awards not only highlighted individual performances but also celebrated the diverse landscape of Indian cinema. KGF 2 took home the Best Feature Film in Kannada, while Aattam, a Malayalam film, won the prestigious Best Film award. The ceremony emphasized the strength of regional films and the incredible talent emerging from across the country.
A Grand Recognition for Indian Filmmaking
The National Film Awards are revered for their unbiased celebration of artistic excellence across all categories. Winners of the Swarna Kamal (Golden Lotus) award were given a cash prize of ₹3 lakh, while recipients of the Rajat Kamal (Silver Lotus) award received ₹2 lakh.
This year’s ceremony served as a testament to the growing prominence of regional cinema in the broader Indian film industry. Mani Ratnam, known for his exceptional storytelling and directorial brilliance, was a highlight, receiving accolades for his contributions. AR Rahman, once again honored for his musical genius, added a melodic note to the event’s grandeur.
The 70th National Film Awards brought together stars from various regions and industries, creating a platform for friendly interaction and celebration of Indian cinema’s dynamic spirit. As these exceptional talents took the stage, the event became a reminder of the passion, creativity, and dedication that continue to shape the future of Indian films.
