On a momentous evening of October 8, 2024, President Droupadi Murmu presented the prestigious 70th National Film Awards, recognizing the exceptional talent and contributions within the Indian film industry. This annual extravaganza served as a fitting platform to honor cinematic brilliance, creativity, and innovation. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award to the seasoned and iconic actor, Mithun Chakraborty, for his remarkable career contribution to Indian cinema spanning several decades.
In her address, President Murmu voiced a poignant observation on the representation of women in the industry. She noted that out of the 85 awardees, only 15 were women, emphasizing the need for more pronounced efforts towards promoting women-led initiatives in filmmaking. She underscored the power of films and social media as essential tools for societal change and urged the industry to harness these mediums for the betterment of society.
The ceremony attracted several key figures in government and the creative industry, including Information & Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Union Minister of State for I&B L. Murugan. Minister Vaishnaw made a significant announcement about the establishment of the Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT) in Mumbai, modeled after the prestigious IITs and IIMs. This ambitious project aims to nurture and cultivate creative talents, equipping them with the skills necessary for the ever-evolving cinematic landscape.
The awards night celebrated a diverse range of films and talents. Anand Ekarshi’s Malayalam film “Aattam (The Play)” was awarded the Best Feature Film, while Siddhant Sarin’s “Ayena (Mirror)” took home the Best Non-Feature Film award. Rishab Shetty received the Best Actor in a Leading Role award for his riveting performance in the Kannada film “Kantara.” The Best Actress in a Leading Role was awarded jointly to Nithya Menen for her electrifying role in “Thiruchitrambalam” (Tamil) and Manasi Parekh for her work in “Kutch Express” (Gujarati). Meanwhile, the adept filmmaker Sooraj R. Barjatya clinched the Best Direction accolade for his Hindi film “Uunchai.”
Among the recipients of various categories, “Brahmastra – Part 1: Shiva” stood out as the Best Film in Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming & Comic.
. “Kantara” was celebrated as the Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. The award for Best Book on Cinema was claimed by “Kishore Kumar: The Ultimate Biography.” Notably, “Aattam” also excelled in Editing and Screenplay, sharing the latter honor with the Hindi film “Gulmohar,” further highlighted by its Best Hindi Film recognition.
The art of choreographed movement was duly acknowledged with Sathish Krishnan winning Best Choreography for “Thiruchitrambalam.” Meanwhile, Niki Joshi took the stage for her exceptional costume design in “Kutch Express.” Pavan Raj Malhotra’s compelling performance in the Haryanvi film “Fouja” earned him the Best Supporting Actor award, and veteran actress Neena Gupta earned the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in “Uunchai: Zenith.”
Musical maestro A.R. Rahman was applauded for his masterful background score in Mani Ratnam’s “Ponnyin Selvan-Part 1”, which also received accolades for Best Cinematography and Best Sound Design. The Best Music Director award for songs was presented to Pritam. The evocative voice of Arijit Singh was recognized as the Best Male Playback Singer for “Kesariya” from “Brahmastra-Part 1: Shiva,” and the soulful Bombay Jayashri was selected as the Best Female Playback Singer for her song “Chaayum Veyil” in “Saudi Vellaka CC 225/2009,” which also won the Best Malayalam Film award.
The emerging talents did not go unnoticed, with Manoj Bajpayee receiving a Special Mention for his laudable performance in “Gulmohar.” The dynamic duo Anbariv, comprising Anbumani and Arivumani, dazzled with their award-winning stunt choreography. Sreepath was named Best Child Artist for his role in “Malikapurram” (Malayalam). Vishal Bhardwaj’s musical genius was awarded for the short film “Fursat,” while the Best Film Critic award was conferred on Deepak Dua. Furthermore, the Marathi documentary “Murmurs Of The Jungle” captivated the judges, winning the Best Documentary award.
The grand celebration of creativity and talent at the 70th National Film Awards echoed the diverse and dynamic spirit of Indian cinema, while also highlighting areas for growth and improvement, particularly in terms of gender inclusivity within the industry.
