Celebrating Indian Cinema: Highlights from the 72nd National Film Awards
Overview of the 72nd National Film Awards
The 72nd National Film Awards recently honored the best of Indian cinema during a press conference. Films released in 2024 were evaluated for this prestigious recognition. Notable mentions include critically acclaimed titles such as Mammootty’s Bramayugam, Mithya backed by Rakshit Shetty, Yami Gautam’s political thriller Article 370, and Kartik Aaryan’s Chandu Champion. The jury acknowledged the remarkable performances of the actors, with most winners being theatrical releases. For those who missed these National Award-winning films in theaters, they are now available for streaming on various OTT platforms. Here’s a comprehensive guide to watch and revisit the award-winning titles from the National Film Awards 2026.
Article 370
Article 370
Yami Gautam was awarded a National Award for her role in Article 370, a political drama directed by Aditya Jambhale, which also clinched the Best Feature Film title. The narrative follows an intelligence agent who is tasked with a covert mission by the Prime Minister’s joint secretary to counter terrorism by making Article 370 ineffective after a significant incident in Kashmir. Yami portrays NIA agent Zooni Haksar. The film, produced by her husband Aditya Dhar and Jio Studios, is available for streaming on Netflix.
Kalki 2898 AD
Kalki 2898 AD
Featuring a star-studded cast including Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, and Disha Patani, Kalki 2898 AD directed by Nag Ashwin received multiple accolades. It was recognized as the Best Feature Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment and for Best Production Design. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the film tells the story of Ashwatthama, who must protect SUM-80’s unborn child. This film marks the beginning of the Kalki Cinematic Universe and draws inspiration from Hindu scriptures. It is currently available on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
Captain Miller
Captain Miller
Dhanush received a Special Mention for his performance in Captain Miller, which was also awarded as the Best Film Promoting National and Social Values. Set during the pre-independence era, the film narrates the story of a man who rises against the British-led Indian military after witnessing a horrific crime. The cast includes Priyanka Mohan, Shiva Rajkumar, Aditi Balan, and Sundeep Kishan. Captain Miller is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
Bramayugam
Bramayugam
Directed by Rahul Sadasivan, Bramayugam is hailed as one of the finest horror films in Malayalam cinema. The plot is set in ancient Kerala, where the protagonist, Thevan, a folk singer from the Paanan caste, finds himself entangled in an ancient tradition after escaping from a slave market. Mammootty won the Best Actor award for his role, and the film also received accolades for Best Cinematography. Bramayugam is available for viewing on SonyLIV.
Pushpa 2: The Rule
Pushpa 2: The Rule
Directed by Sukumar, Pushpa 2: The Rule continues the saga of Pushpa Raj (Allu Arjun), a Red Sanders mafia leader. Following the events of Pushpa: The Rise, Pushpa faces off against Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat (Fahadh Faasil), a ruthless police officer. The film won awards for Best Screenplay and Best Costume Design. Pushpa 2 is available for streaming on Netflix.
Amaran
Amaran
Starring Sivakarthikeyan and Sai Pallavi, Amaran pays tribute to Major Varadarajan, who was posthumously awarded the Ashok Chakra for his bravery in a counterterrorism operation. The film won awards for Best Music Direction (Background Score), Best Editing, and Best Director for Rajkumar Periasamy. Amaran is currently streaming on Netflix.
Srikanth
Srikanth
Srikanth tells the inspiring story of Srikanth Bolla, a blind industrialist who overcame numerous challenges to succeed. Directed by Tushar Hiranandani, the film features Rajkummar Rao, Jyotika, Sharad Kelkar, and Alaya F. It won the Best Hindi Film award and is available for streaming on Netflix.
Mithya
Mithya
The film Mithya follows the journey of an 11-year-old boy, Mithun, who must leave his hometown after his parents' death. Directed by Sumanth Bhat, it stars Athish S Shetty, Prakash Thuminad, and Roopashree Vorkady. The film won the Best Kannada Film title, with Roopashree receiving the Best Supporting Actress award and Athish S Shetty being recognized as the Best Child Actor. Mithya is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
Feminichi Fathima
Feminichi Fathima
According to the synopsis on Amazon Prime Video, Feminichi Fathima tells the story of a housewife in coastal Kerala who ignites a quiet rebellion while attempting to replace a mattress, challenging patriarchal norms through small acts of defiance on her path to self-liberation. The film features Binshad Arikkad, Babitha Basheer, and Abhilash Chungath, and it won the Best Malayalam Film award.
Raayan
Raayan
Dhanush’s Raayan won the Best Tamil Film award. The story follows Kathavarayan, known as Raayan, who must care for his two brothers and toddler sister after their parents disappear. As they grow up, Muthu becomes an alcoholic, hot-headed individual, while Manickam is a college student, and Durga is the beloved sister. Muthu's addiction leads the family into turmoil. The film is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
Conclusion
Which National Film Award-winning movie are you planning to watch this Sunday?