The 71st National Film Awards were presented with grandeur on Tuesday at Vigyan Bhavan, Delhi, with President Droupadi Murmu honoring the winners with trophies and certificates of appreciation. The awards recognize excellence in films, acting, and technical achievements for the year 2023.
Shah Rukh Khan won the Best Actor award for Jawan, while Vikrant Massey received the honor for 12th Fail. Rani Mukerji was named Best Actress for her performance in Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway. The prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award was presented to Mohanlal, who was earlier felicitated with a shawl. Speaking on the occasion, Mohanlal said, “I never imagined receiving the Dadasaheb Phalke Award even in my dreams. This honor is not just for me but for the entire Malayalam film industry. I will continue to work with greater responsibility.”
From Tollywood, Bhagavanth Kesari was selected as the Best Feature Film, with director Anil Ravipudi and producer Sahu Garapati receiving the awards. Sai Rajesh won Best Screenplay for Baby, while P.V.N.S. Rohit received Best Male Playback Singer for the same film.
Prashanth Varma was honored for Best Animation/Visual Effects for Hanuman, and Harshavardhan Rameshwar won Best Background Score for Animal. Sukruti Veni received the Best Child Actress award for Gandhitaata Chettu, among other winners.
The awards ceremony celebrated the outstanding achievements of Indian cinema in 2023, recognizing talent across acting, direction, music, and technical fields, reaffirming the diversity and excellence of the country’s film industry.