From Article 370 to Chandu Champion : Stars celebrate National Awards glory
Bollywood movie Article 370, based on the events surrounding the abrogation of this section of the Constitution in 2019, was on Saturday named as the best feature film at the 72nd National Film Awards. Yami Gautam Dhar, who acted in Article 370, was named the best actress in a leading role while Malayalam superstar Mammootty and Kartik Aaryan shared the best actor award for their lead roles in Bramayugam (Malayalam) and Chandu Champion (Hindi), respectively.
Announcing the awards, chairman of the central jury Jayaraj said Telugu movie Kalki 2898 AD bagged the trophy for best popular film for wholesome entertainment. Srikanth won the Best Hindi Film award, and Captain Miller took home the award for Best Film promoting national, social values.
Apart from the top honours, Sanjay Mishra won best supporting actor for Bhakshak, while Ropashree Varkady (Mithya) and Sachana Namidass (Maharaja) shared the best supporting actress award.
Reacting to the honour of best music direction for Article 370, an emotional Shashwat said, “I came into cinema with no inheritance and only a deep love for music, so this National Award feels like a beautiful pause to look back at every uncertain day, every quiet sacrifice, and every person who stood by me before there was anything to celebrate. I share this with my family, my team, and especially Aditya Dhar, whose faith in me has shaped so much of this journey.”
The competition was among the strongest in recent years, with acclaimed films such as All We Imagine As Light, Laapataa Ladies, Bramayuga, Aadujeevitham: The Goat Life, Pushpa 2,
Stree 2, Jigra, Meiyazhagan, Premalu, Manjummel Boys and Hanu Man earning widespread critical and commercial acclaim. From powerful performances and ambitious storytelling to box office successes and festival favourites, the 2024 slate reflected the diversity of Indian cinema.
The awards recognise the best of Indian cinema from films certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) between January 1 and December 31, 2024. The winners were selected by an 11-member jury chaired by Jayaraj.
The prestigious awards are regarded as India’s highest official recognition for cinematic excellence.
AWARDS
Best Feature Film: Article 370
Best Actor: Kartik Aaryan and Mammootty
Best Actress: Yami Gautam Dhar
Directorial Debut: Randeep Hooda
Non-Feature Film: Bhangaar
Best Documentary: Ram-Nami
