The curtain rose on the 69th National Film Awards, an event that shone a spotlight on the finest achievements within the Indian film fraternity.The awards were announced on Thursday evening at the National Media Centre in Delhi.With eager anticipation, the winners were unveiled during the recent ceremony, illuminating the talents that have enriched the cinematic landscape.

A standout among the victors was Allu Arjun, whose exceptional depiction in “Pushpa: The Rise” earned him the coveted title of Best Actor. His ability to immerse himself in the character left an indelible mark on the screen and in the hearts of the audience.

In a rare and heartening twist, the Best Actress accolade saw a shared victory. Alia Bhatt’s compelling performance in “Gangubai Kathiawadi” and Kriti Sanon’s emotive portrayal in “Mimi” both garnered the admiration of the judges, underscoring the diversity and prowess of female talent in Indian cinema.

“Rocketry: The Nambi Effect” soared to victory as the Best Feature Film, celebrated for its gripping narrative and cinematic finesse. Shoojit Sircar’s directorial Sardar Udham won the best feature film award in Hindi. The film was released in 2021 on Prime Video and starred Vicky Kaushal in the lead role.

The poignant theme of national integration took center stage with “The Kashmir Files,” which clinched the esteemed Nargis Dutt Award for Best Film. This film not only delved into the complexities of unity and identity but also provoked contemplation on larger societal dynamics.

These awards serve as a reminder of the cinematic achievements over the year and recognize the impact that films have on society, culture, and the human experience. The 69th National Film Awards, like its predecessors, stood as a testament to the power of storytelling and the magic of the silver screen.

Compiled by D. Dutta