At the 71st National Film Awards, the Telugu film industry won awards in a diverse range of categories.
1. Bhagavanth Kesari: Best Telugu Film
The Nandamuri Balakrishna-starrer has been named the Best Telugu Film. Directed by Anil Ravipudi, the film is produced by Shine Screens. As per its makers, the award is in recognition of its 'Women should become strong' theme.
2. Hanu-Man: Action and Animation
The superhero film Hanu-Man has scored a double victory. The National Award for Best Action Direction became its. Additionally, the film was recognized for its visual effects and animation, winning the Best Film in Animation, VFX category. Directed by Prasanth Varma, the film was produced by Niranjan Reddy and Chaitanya Reddy.
3. Balagam: Best Lyrics
The heartfelt and critically acclaimed film Balagam has won a National Award for Best Lyrics. The song 'Ooru Palletooru' was penned by lyricist Kasarla Shyam.
4. Baby: Two Categories
Baby has secured two significant National Awards. Neelam Sai Razesh was honored with the award for Best Screenplay. In the music category, Rohith PVS was recognized as the Best Male Singer for his soulful rendition of the song Premisthunna.
5. Sukriti Veni Bandreddi: Best Child Artist
She won the National Award for Gandhi Tatha Chettu. The film was presented by Thabhitha Sukumar, her mother. Pushpa maker Sukumar is the child's father.
