The prestigious 72nd National Film Awards ceremony brought together leading lights of the Indian film industry to celebrate cinematic excellence. President Droupadi Murmu presided over the event, presenting accolades to directors, musicians, actors, and technicians who shaped the landscape of cinema over the past year.
Director Sukumar received recognition in the Best Original Screenplay category for his work on the high-profile action drama Pushpa 2. The film, which has enjoyed massive commercial success and widespread public attention, was lauded for its compelling narrative structure and engaging dialogue.
In the musical categories, composer GV Prakash Kumar earned the honor for Best Music Direction. His evocative score for the biographical action film Amaran resonated strongly with both critics and audiences, showcasing his ability to enhance dramatic storytelling through melody.
Filmmaker Venky Atluri was also celebrated at the national level for his direction of the financial thriller Lucky Baskhar. The movie drew praise for its intricate plot and period setting, solidifying Atluri’s reputation as a versatile storyteller within contemporary cinema.
Beyond the major directorial and musical wins, the ceremony highlighted exceptional behind-the-scenes talent. Niharika Konidela was among the honorees, alongside production designer Nitin Zihani Choudhary and costume designers Deepali Noor and Sheetal Sharma. Stunt choreography by Anl Arasu and cinematography by Ravi Kumar were similarly recognized for their contributions to the technical craft of filmmaking.
The National Film Awards stand as one of the highest honors in the country's entertainment sector, evaluating films from various regional industries. This year's event underscored the diverse range of storytelling and technical mastery present across Indian cinema, honoring both established veterans and emerging voices.
Reporting based on coverage first published by The Times of India. Read the original report at The Times of India.
