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The 71st National Film Awards brought immense pride to the Hindi film industry, as several notable movies and performances received top honors. The prestigious awards ceremony celebrated artistic excellence and recognized talent across various categories. Let's examine the Hindi movies and performers that were particularly noteworthy this year.
1. 'Jawan' – Shah Rukh Khan’s First National Award
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Superstar Shah Rukh Khan finally earned his first-ever National Award for his powerful performance in Jawan. Directed by Atlee, the film featured him in a dual role—as a soldier and his son. With a mix of action, patriotism, and strong social commentary, Jawan became one of the most successful films of his career.
2. '12th Fail' – Vikrant Massey Wins Best Actor
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Vikrant Massey took home the National Award for Best Actor for his inspiring role in 12th Fail. Based on real events, the film tells the story of a determined young man who overcomes hardships to crack the UPSC exam. Massey’s performance resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike.
3. 'Kathal' – Best Hindi Film
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The satirical drama Kathal, starring Sanya Malhotra, Vijay Raaz, and Anant Joshi, received the award for Best Hindi Film. Set in a small town, the movie humorously follows a female police officer investigating the bizarre theft of two jackfruits, subtly highlighting social and bureaucratic issues.
4. 'Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway' – Rani Mukerji Wins Best Actress
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Rani Mukerji’s heart-wrenching portrayal of a mother fighting against the Norwegian system for her children in Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway won her the Best Actress award. The film, inspired by real-life events, touched the audience with its emotional depth and powerful message.
5. 'The Kerala Story' – Best Cinematography
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The Kerala Story won the Best Cinematography award and received praise for its outstanding visual storytelling despite igniting controversy. The film sheds light on the troubling tale of young women manipulated and radicalized, presented with gripping cinematographic work.
6. 'Sirf Ek Banda Kaafi Hai' – Best Dialogue
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Sirf Ek Banda Kaafi Hai, a courtroom drama led by Manoj Bajpayee, was awarded for Best Dialogue. The film stood out for its impactful script, with writer Deepak Kingrani’s dialogues receiving particular praise. Bajpayee's portrayal of a lawyer fighting against all odds strengthened the story's gripping plot.
7. 'Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani' – Entertainment & Choreography Awards
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Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt’s romantic drama Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani bagged two National Awards. It won in the category of Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment and also received the Best Choreography award for the energetic song Dhindora Baaje Re.
8. 'Sam Bahadur' – Makeup and Costume Excellence
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Vicky Kaushal’s Sam Bahadur, based on the life of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, was recognized for its outstanding technical achievements. Shrikant Desai received the Best Makeup Artist award, while Sachin Lavelkar, Divya Gambhir, and Nidhi Gambhir were honored for Best Costume Design.
9. 'Animal' – Best Sound Design
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Ranbir Kapoor's action drama Animal earned the National Award for Best Sound Design. The audio landscape crafted by Sachin Sudhakaran and Hariharan Muralidharan contributed significantly to the immersive experience of the film.
The 71st National Film Awards were a testament to the evolving storytelling and technical brilliance of Hindi cinema. From meaningful social dramas to visually rich spectacles, these films left a mark on audiences and critics alike.