Arijit Singh, the voice that has serenaded millions, has added another feather to his cap by winning the Best Male Playback Singer award at the 70th National Film Awards. The accolade comes for his soul-stirring rendition of Kesariya from the film Brahmastra: Part One – Shiva. The awards were announced on Friday in the national capital, celebrating the finest contributions to Indian cinema in 2022.
Kesariya, a romantic anthem that quickly became a fan favorite, is renowned for its touching lyrics and Singh’s evocative voice. The song, composed by the ever-talented Pritam, captures the essence of love and has been praised for its lyrical depth and emotional resonance. Arijit Singh’s performance in the track showcases his ability to convey complex emotions through his soulful singing, making it a deserving winner at this year’s National Film Awards.
In addition to Singh’s triumph, Pritam also won the National Award for Best Music for his work on Brahmastra. The film’s soundtrack, a blend of epic and contemporary sounds, played a crucial role in the storytelling of this fantasy epic.
Brahmastra Part One: Shiva, directed by Ayan Mukerji, is the first installment in the planned trilogy set in the Astraverse, a cinematic universe filled with ancient Indian mythology and modern-day superheroes. The film stars Ranbir Kapoor as Shiva, a DJ who discovers his mysterious connection with the element of fire and learns that he holds the power to awaken the Brahmastra, a supernatural weapon capable of destroying the universe. The star-studded cast includes Alia Bhatt, Amitabh Bachchan, Mouni Roy, and Nagarjuna Akkineni in pivotal roles.
The film’s story, steeped in mythological references and contemporary themes, is a visual spectacle that combines action, romance, and fantasy. Arijit Singh’s Kesariya plays a pivotal role in the film, serving as the emotional core of Shiva and Isha’s (played by Alia Bhatt) love story. The song’s success is a testament to Singh’s versatility as a singer and his ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level.
The jury for the 70th National Film Awards, comprising Rahul Rawail (Chairperson of the Feature Film Jury), Nila Madhab Panda (Chairperson of the Non-Feature Film Jury), and Gangadhar Mudalair (Chairperson of the Best Writing on Cinema Jury), had the challenging task of selecting the best from a plethora of outstanding performances and contributions to Indian cinema.
As Arijit Singh continues to charm audiences with his melodious voice, his win at the 70th National Film Awards further solidifies his position as one of the most cherished playback singers in the country. His rendition of Kesariya is not just a song but a feeling that has touched the hearts of millions, making it a timeless piece in Indian cinema.