71st National Film Awards: 12th Fail Wins Best Feature Film, Kathal Is Best Hindi Film

71st National Film Award Winners: The wait is finally over for cinema lovers across India! The 71st National Film Awards will be announced today (August 1), starting at 6 PM. This year, the honours will go to films released in 2023, following a delay caused by the pandemic.

Due to the disruptions of COVID-19, the awards timeline had shifted - films from 2022 were awarded in 2024. Now, the schedule returns to normal, with 2023's cinematic gems getting their due recognition.

The jury has submitted the official list of winners to Union Information & Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The handover took place in the presence of Minister of State L Murugan and Information & Broadcasting Secretary Sanjay Jaju.

A press briefing is scheduled for 6 PM at the National Media Centre in New Delhi, where jury members will officially announce the winners in all categories. Media representatives have been asked to arrive by 5:30 PM for the event.

71ST NATIONAL FILM AWARDS: WHO ARE THE FRONTRUNNERS THIS TIME?

As anticipation builds ahead of the 71st National Film Awards announcement, all eyes are on Vikrant Massey and Rani Mukerji. Their praised performances in 12th Fail and Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway, respectively, have placed them among the strongest contenders for Best Actor and Best Actress this year.

Last year, Rishab Shetty earned the Best Actor title for his impactful role in Kantara. The Best Actress award was jointly given to Nithya Menen and Manasi Parekh, both acknowledged for their compelling work. Meanwhile, the Best Debut Director award went to the Haryanvi film Fouja, applauded for its storytelling and direction.

71ST NATIONAL FILM AWARDS: KATHAL WINS BEST FILM AWARD

While there were reports about Karan Johar's Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani having high chances of winning the Best Film for providing wholesome entertainment, moviegoers were curious to know which films will bag the Best Feature Film and Best Hindi Film.

Interestingly, even in this category, people were assuming that 12th Fail will be announced as the winner. Well, their prediction turned out to be true as the Vikrant Massey starrer was announced as the Best Feature Film.

On the other hand, Sanya Malhotra starrer Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery has won the Best Hindi Feature Film award at the National Film Awards.

Blending comedy with commentary on real-life social issues, the film stood out for its original storyline and powerful performances. This win highlights a growing appreciation among viewers and critics for Hindi cinema that delivers both entertainment and substance.