70th National Film Awards announced: Rishab Shetty, Nithya Menen, and 'Kantara' shine bright

The winners of the 70th National Film Awards were announced on Frida, in a highly anticipated press conference by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. These awards, recognized as one of the most prestigious honors in Indian cinema, celebrate excellence across various categories.

Rishab Shetty emerged as the Best Actor for his powerful performance in Kantara, while the Best Actress award was shared by Nithya Menen for her role in Thiruchitrambalam (Tamil) and Manasi Parekh for Kutch Express (Gujarati). The film Kantara also won the Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment, further solidifying its success.

The Best Feature Film award was bestowed upon Aattam, a film that stood out for its storytelling and cinematic excellence. In the category of Best Film in AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comic), Brahmastra took the honors, showcasing the evolution of Indian cinema in the realm of visual effects.

Gulmohar was recognized as the Best Hindi Film, and KGF: Chapter 2 won the Best Action Direction Award. The award for Best Choreography went to Jaani and Satish Krishnan, while the Best Lyrics award was claimed by Fouja.

In the playback singing categories, Arijit Singh was honored as the Best Male Playback Singer for the song "Kesariya" from Brahmastra, and Bombay Jayashri won the Best Female Playback Singer for "Chaayam Veyil" from Saudi Vellakka.

Neena Gupta won the Best Supporting Actress for her role in Uunchai, and Pavan Raj Malhotra received the Best Supporting Actor award for Fouja. Additionally, Manoj Bajpayee received a Special Mention for his outstanding performance in Gulmohar.

The winners, including the Dadasaheb Phalke Award recipient, will be honored by President Droupadi Murmu in a ceremony scheduled for October 2024 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.