Image instagrammed by Alia Bhatt. (Courtesy: AliaBhatt)
The excitement in the film industry is palpable as the curtain rises for the 69th National Film Awards. Set to be announced on August 24, this prestigious event has the entire cinematic community on the edge of their seats, awaiting the unveiling of the deserving winners. The announcement will take place during a press conference by the Jury at the National Media Center in New Delhi.
While numerous names swirl around social media platforms, the official verdict is still under wraps, leaving fans and film enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the declaration of the honorees. Among the speculated contenders, the names of Alia Bhatt and Kangana Ranaut are making rounds for the title of Best Actress, with their roles in Gangubai Kathiawadi and Thalaivi respectively. Additionally, the Malayalam film Nayattu and R Madhavan’s Rocketry: The Nambi Effect are also mentioned as potential frontrunners. The truth behind these speculations will finally come to light on the evening of Thursday.
In the previous edition, the Best Actor Award for 2020 was shared between Suriya for Soorarai Pottru and Ajay Devgn for the Hindi film Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior. The Best Actress award was claimed by Aparna Balamurali. The accolade for Best Lyrics went to Manoj Muntashir for the Hindi movie Saina. The awards not only celebrate outstanding performances but also recognize literary contributions related to cinema.
Acknowledging the efforts of states in promoting filmmaking, Madhya Pradesh was bestowed with the esteemed title of the ‘Most Film Friendly State’ award. Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh earned a well-deserved Special Mention for their contributions to the film industry.
In the literary realm of cinema, The Longest Kiss by Kishwar Desai earned the distinction of the Best Book on Cinema for the year. Special mentions were accorded to the Malayalam book MT Anunahvangalude Pusthakam and the Odia book Kali Paine Kalira Cinema.
As the anticipation escalates, the 69th National Film Awards promise to be a celebration of creativity, talent, and the remarkable contributions that continue to shape the cinematic landscape of India. Come Thursday, the suspense will finally give way to celebration as the winners are unveiled, setting the stage for another unforgettable chapter in Indian cinema.