National Film Awards 2026: Yami Gautam, Kartik Aryan among major winners
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TOI ENTERTAINMENT DESK
The 72nd National Film Awards were announced in New Delhi, recognizing excellence in Indian cinema for 2024. Major winners include Yami Gautam for Best Actress, alongside Kartik Aaryan and Mammootty sharing the Best Actor award.
The 72nd National Film Awards: A Celebration of Indian Cinematic Excellence
On July 18, 2026, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting officially announced the recipients of the 72nd National Film Awards in New Delhi. These awards serve as the pinnacle of recognition within the Indian film industry, honoring artistic merit and technical prowess. The event highlighted films that secured certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, ensuring that the selections reflect the most significant contributions to the cultural landscape of that specific calendar year.
The Jury and Selection Process
This year’s edition was overseen by an 11-member jury, chaired by the acclaimed filmmaker Jayaraj. The jury’s responsibility involved evaluating a diverse array of submissions across feature films, non-feature films, and writing on cinema categories. By maintaining a rigorous selection process, the committee aimed to capture the evolution of storytelling in India, balancing mainstream commercial success with profound artistic narratives that defined the 2024 cinematic cycle.
Notable Acting Triumphs
The 2026 awards ceremony was marked by significant recognition for performances that pushed the boundaries of character portrayal. Yami Gautam was awarded Best Actress for her performance in Article 370, a role that received critical acclaim for its intensity and depth. The Best Actor category saw a shared honor between Kartik Aaryan for his transformative work in Chandu Champion and the veteran actor Mammootty for his compelling role in the Malayalam horror drama Bramayugam. These wins highlight a trend of appreciating both physical transformation and nuanced, atmospheric acting.
The Context of a Marvellous 2024
The eligibility period for these awards, 2024, was widely considered a landmark year for Indian cinema. International recognition for films such as All We Imagine As Light and the widespread success of Laapataa Ladies set a high bar for excellence. Furthermore, the theatrical dominance of major releases like Pushpa 2, featuring Allu Arjun, underscored the continued vitality of the Indian film industry in capturing global audience attention.
Diverse Categories and Future Trends
Beyond the headline-grabbing acting awards, the ceremony recognized achievements in narration, scriptwriting, and special mentions, including titles like Feminichi Fathima, Blue, and NDA. These selections suggest a growing appreciation for regional and experimental storytelling. As the industry moves forward, the trend of cross-regional collaboration and the acknowledgment of diverse narratives—ranging from historical dramas to experimental horror—will likely continue to shape the trajectory of future National Film Awards.
Conclusion
The 72nd National Film Awards have successfully honored the talent that defined the 2024 cinematic year. By balancing the accolades between established stars and breakthrough performances, the event continues to be a vital institution for the preservation and celebration of India's rich storytelling tradition. As the industry evolves, these awards remain a key barometer for assessing the artistic health and commercial vitality of Indian film.
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