72nd National Film Awards: Mithya and Imbu Dominate Karnataka’s Triumphant Day
By Kushinara MD
Bangalore Mail
BANGALORE: In a stellar moment of pride for regional cinema, Karnataka carved out a significant mark at the prestigious 72nd National Film Awards. Out of over 400 films across 34 languages competing for top honors, the state walked away with multiple recognitions, underscoring the depth and evolving cultural resonance of Kannada and Tulu storytelling.
Leading the charge for the state was the critically acclaimed feature Mithya, which secured the highly coveted title of Best Kannada Film. Produced under the banner of Rakshit Shetty’s Paramvah Studios and directed by Sumanth Bhat, the film has enjoyed a celebrated trajectory ever since its initial festival run. Known for its quiet, deeply evocative narrative style and amplified by Midhun Mukundhan’s soulful musical score, Mithya resonated heavily with the national jury.
The film’s triumph did not stop at the top category. Mithya swept a total of three awards, including a win for young talent Athish Shetty, who bagged the National Award for Best Child Artist for his deeply moving performance. Additionally, actress Roopashree was honored with the Best Supporting Actor award, cementing the film’s artistic brilliance.
Coastal Karnataka also had a massive reason to celebrate as the film Imbu took home the National Award for Best Tulu Film. Directed by Shivadhwaj Shetty and backed by Pitcher Studio, the victory brings well-deserved national attention to the Tulu film industry. The project has been widely lauded for its authentic representation, firmly rooted in the local culture, heritage, and ethos of the region.
Beyond the silver screen, the state’s cinematic literature also earned high praise. The National Award for Best Book on Cinema was awarded to Naaniruvude Nimagaagi, Naadiruvude Nanagaagi: Kannada Cinemada Tatva Mattu Rajakeeya. Authored by Kenchanur Pradeep Kumar Shetty and published by Mirror Books, the highly insightful work meticulously breaks down the philosophical underpinnings, political landscape, and historical evolution of the Kannada film industry.
With a total of 43 awards distributed at this year’s ceremony, Karnataka’s rich tapestry of visual stories and literary analysis proves that regional cinema continues to push creative boundaries and command national respect.
