The jury included Rahul Rawail as chairman for feature films, Nila Madhab Panda for non-feature films and Gangadhar Mudalair for best cinematographic screenplay.
In addition to the award for best Hindi film, Gulmohar also received a special mention. Other films that received special mentions include the Malayalam film Kadhikan, Ponniyin Selvan Part 1and Sanjoy Salil Chowdhury.
Director: Rahul V. Chittella, Gulmohar tells the story of the Batra family, who are about to leave their 34-year-old home of Gulmohar. The film shows how this major change makes them re-evaluate their relationships and uncover hidden family secrets. The film stars Manoj Bajpayee, Sharmila Tagore, Simran and Suraj Sharma.
The winners, including the recipient of the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, will be felicitated by President Droupadi Murmu in October 2024.
Nithya Menon wins the award for best actress for “Thiruchitrambalam”
Nithya Menon’s performance in Thiruchitrambalam has captivated audiences and critics alike, earning her the Best Actress award at this year’s National Film Awards. The Tamil film, directed by Mithran Jawahar, is a heartwarming tale of love, loss and familial bonds, with Menon delivering a performance that is as powerful as it is nuanced. Her ability to subtly convey deep emotions has once again proved that she is one of the finest actresses in the Indian film industry.
Manasi Parekh receives award for best actress for “Kutch Express”
Manasi Parekh won awards for her exceptional role in the Gujarati film Kutch Express, which received widespread acclaim for its portrayal of cultural and personal identities. Parekh’s performance in the lead role is an acting tour de force that combines vulnerability with strength. The film, which explores the complex dynamics of relationships against the backdrop of Kutch’s rich heritage, was hailed for its storytelling and Parekh’s compelling performance.
“Aattam: The Play” wins best feature film
In addition to the awards, Malayalam film ‘Aattam: The Play’ won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film. Directed by a talented ensemble cast, the film was praised for its innovative narrative structure and the depth of its characters. The award highlights the film’s contribution to Indian cinema and showcases the richness of Malayalam storytelling.
Marathi documentary “Murmurs of the Jungle” scores with best narrative
In the documentary category, Marathi film Murmurs of the Jungle won the award for Best Narrator (Voiceover). Suman Shinde delivered a captivating performance. The film is hailed for its exploration of the natural world and Shinde’s voiceover was crucial in bringing the documentary’s themes to life. The jury called it one of the best films in the documentary section and praised its ability to immerse the audience in the world portrayed.
Vishal Bhardwaj wins the award for best music direction for “Fursat”
Vishal Bhardwaj, a stalwart of the Indian music and film industry, has won the Best Music Direction award for his work on the Hindi film Fursat. Known for its moody and atmospheric quality, Bhardwaj’s music plays a central role in the film’s storyline. This recognition is yet another accolade in his already illustrious career and confirms his status as one of India’s most gifted composers.
“Kantara” wins the award for “Best Entertainment Film”
One of Sandalwood’s blockbusters, Kantara has once again made it to the top at the 70th National Film Awards, winning the two new awards of Best Actor and Best Entertainment Film. Kantara is an action thriller directed by Rishab Shetty that was released in 2022. It stars Rishab Shetty and Kishore in the lead roles and the film has received critical acclaim.
The film is about the traditional tribal artist ‘Bhoota Kola’ who is still famous in the rural areas of Karnataka. After the success of the film ‘Kantara’ in 2022, the Karnataka government introduced a monthly allowance for Bhoota Kola artists above 60.
Full list of winners: 70th National Film Awards 2024
Best Feature Film: Aattam
Best Actor: Rishab Shetty
Best Actress: Nithya Menen and Manasi Parekh
Best Director: Sooraj Barjatya
Best Supporting Actress: Neena Gupta
Best Supporting Actor: Pawan Malhotra
Best Feature Film for Wholesome Entertainment: Kantara
Best Debut: Fouja, Pramod Kumar
Regional film awards:
Best Telugu Film: Kartikeya 2
Best Tamil Film: Ponniyin Selvan – Part 1
Best Punjabi Film: Baaghi Di Dhee
Best Odia Film: Daman
Best Malayalam Film: Saudi Velakka CC.225/2009
Best Marathi Film: Vaalvi
Best Kannada Film: KGF: Chapter 2
Best Hindi Film: Gulmohar
Special mentions:
Manoj Bajpayee: Gulmohar
Sanjoy Salil Chowdhury: Kalikhan
Technical Awards:
Best Action Director: KGF: Chapter 2
Best Choreography: Tiruchitrabalam
Best lyrics: Fouja
Best Music Director: Pritam (Songs), AR Rahman (Background Music)
Best Makeup: Aparajito
Best Costumes: Kutchh Express
Best Production Design: Aparajito
Best Editing: Aattam
Best Sound Design: Ponniyin Selvan – Part 1
Best Screenplay: Aattam
Best Dialogues: Gulmohar
Best Cinematography: Ponniyin Selvan – Part 1
Best Female Playback: Saudi Velakka
Best Female Performance: Brahmastra
