When Legends Meet Their Due
Imagine a stage where sixty-odd years of Indian cinema converge, the actors, directors, technicians, languages, regional cinemas, stories seldom heard and the giants whose names have become part of our culture. When that moment arrives, it doesn’t just honor a film or performance — it reminds us of what art, struggle, imagination and storytelling can do in a democracy. The 71st National Film Awards was such a moment, a night of long-awaited recognition, new firsts and a salute to those who have shaped Indian cinema.
What Are the National Film Awards, and Why Do They Matter?
To understand the significance of the 71st National Film Awards edition, we need to understand the tradition itself.
- The National Film Awards are among the most prestigious film awards in India. Instituted by the Government of India, through the Directorate of Film Festivals (under the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting), they aim to honor the best of Indian cinema across all regions, languages, genres.
- Their importance lies in their impartiality (in the ideal), merit-based selection, the fact that awards cover feature, non-feature, documentary, writing on cinema, regional films etc. These aren’t popularity contests but they emphasize artistic excellence, social relevance, technical brilliance.
- Over time, these awards have become a benchmark for actors, directors, technicians, for regional film industries, for socially conscious cinema. They are not just trophies but recognition of cultural contribution of cinema as part of India’s identity.
Origins: When It Started, And Who Began It
A brief history for context:
- The National Film Awards were first established in 1954.
- They are administered by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) of India and the Directorate of Film Festivals (DFF). Over time, more categories have been added—writing, regional films, short films, non-feature films, technical awards.
- One of the highest special honours given through this system is the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, started in 1969, in memory of Dadasaheb Phalke (“father of Indian cinema”), to recognize lifetime achievement and contribution to Indian cinema.
Winners at the 71st National Film Awards
Here’s a rundown of the most prominent categories, winners, and what made them stand out:
| Category | Winner(s) | Film / Role / Remark |
|---|---|---|
| Best Feature Film | 12th Fail | A film that gained recognition not just for its narrative, but its social relevance. |
| Best Actor (Leading Role) | Shah Rukh Khan (for Jawan) Vikrant Massey (for 12th Fail) – (shared award) | Notably, this was SRK’s first National Award in Best Actor category, a milestone in his long career. |
| Best Actress (Leading Role) | Rani Mukerji for Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway | First National Award win for Rani Mukerji. |
| Best Direction | Sudipto Sen for The Kerala Story | Recognition of direction in a film that sparked discussion. |
| Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment | Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani | A mainstream entertainer, recognized for balancing mass appeal with quality. |
Music & Songs-Category Winners at the 71st National Film Awards
| Category | Winner(s) | Film / Song | Language / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Music Direction (Songs) | G. V. Prakash Kumar | Vaathi | Songs composition category. |
| Best Music Direction (Background Music / Score) | Harshavardhan Rameshwar | Animal | Background score / instrumental mood / ambience. |
| Best Lyrics | Kasarla Shyam | Song: “Ooru Palletooru” from Balagam | Telugu language. |
| Best Male Playback Singer | P. V. N. S. Rohit | Song: “Premisthunna” from Baby | Telugu. |
| Best Female Playback Singer | Shilpa Rao | Song: “Chaleya” from Jawan | Hindi. |
Mohanlal: Lifelong Journey, Honours & The 71st Phalke Award
Mohanlal is one of Indian cinema’s most respected actors, especially in the Malayalam film industry, but beyond that, his work has had national & cross-linguistic influence. Let’s look at his recognitions:
| Honour | Year | Significance / Details |
|---|---|---|
| Padma Shri | 2001 | Fourth highest civilian award in India. Recognized Mohanlal’s contribution to arts, notably Malayalam cinema. |
| Padma Bhushan | 2019 | Third highest civilian award; a broader recognition of his artistic impact. |
| Dadasaheb Phalke Award | 2023 (conferred in 71st National Film Awards) | India’s highest award in cinema for lifetime contribution. Presented by the President, it symbolizes not just personal achievement but lasting influence. Mohanlal received it at the 71st Awards (presented on 23 September 2025). |
Some extra context about Mohanlal:
- He has acted in hundreds of films (over 350 roles across Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi) over more than four decades.
- Before the Phalke, he had already won five National Film Awards (competitive), multiple Kerala State Film Awards, Filmfare South etc.
- His journey is noted not just for commercial hits, but for acting range: serious dramas, experimental roles, mainstream mass films, character-driven parts. Many regard him as extremely versatile.
During the 71st National Film Awards, Mohanlal’s receipt of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award was met with a standing ovation. He dedicated the honour to the Malayalam film industry (his fraternity), noting that his roots, colleagues, predecessors all contributed to this legacy.
Takeaways: What 71st Edition Says About Indian Cinema Today
- Recognition of firsts and long overdue moments: Shah Rukh Khan’s first Best Actor National Award, Rani Mukerji’s first Best Actress, etc.
- A balance between popular mainstream films and socially relevant or message-driven cinema. Films like Sam Bahadur (values), Kathal (Hindi best feature), etc., show that critical acclaim and social themes still matter.
- Increasing representation: regional films, multiple languages, non-Bollywood films getting top prizes.
- Honouring legends: Mohanlal’s lifetime achievement reminds us that the present stands on many decades of struggle, art, craft.
Concluding Thought
When Mohanlal accepted the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in the 71st National Film Awards, he didn’t just accept a medal. He celebrated the stories, languages, technicians, regional cinemas, and all the unseen hands that make films possible. These awards, in their 71st edition, do more than hand out honours—they remind us that Indian cinema belongs to all of India, not just its loudest voices. They underscore that artistry, courage, variety and depth still matter.
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Hi, I’m Prashant Jain — a curious soul, storyteller, and content creator at heart.I’ve always been drawn to the world of entertainment, travel, sports, health & lifestyle — not just as a writer, but as someone who genuinely lives these experiences. Whether I’m binge-watching the latest OTT series, exploring offbeat spiritual destinations in India, or diving deep into wellness routines and cricket match insights, I love sharing what I discover with like-minded readers.
PopNewsBlend is my way of blending personal journeys with meaningful stories — ones that inform, inspire, and keep you ahead of the curve. Everything I write comes from real observations, hands-on experiences, and a deep passion for understanding the world around us.
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