The 70th National Film Awards, honoring the finest cinematic achievements of 2022, have brought well-deserved recognition to two talented actresses, Nithya Menen and Manasi Parekh, who have both been awarded the Best Actress in a Leading Role. The awards were announced on Friday in the national capital, celebrating the diversity and excellence of Indian cinema.
Nithya Menen received the accolade for her role in the Tamil film Thiruchitrambalam, while Manasi Parekh was recognized for her outstanding performance in the Gujarati film Kutch Express. This unique tie in the Best Actress category highlights the exceptional talents of both actresses and the diverse storytelling found in regional cinema.
Thiruchitrambalam, directed by Mithran Jawahar, is a family entertainer that explores the deep bond between best friends Thiru and Shobana, played by Dhanush and Nithya Menen. The film, which was released in 2022, has been lauded for its heartwarming narrative and the chemistry between its lead actors. Nithya’s portrayal of Shobana, a supportive and understanding friend, has resonated with audiences and critics alike, earning her this prestigious award.
On the other hand, Kutch Express, which hit the screens on January 6, 2023, is a Gujarati film that beautifully weaves together emotions, relationships, and the journey of self-discovery. Directed by Vipul Mehta, the film stars Manasi Parekh in the lead role, alongside Ratna Pathak Shah and Dharmendra Gohil. The story, enriched with heartfelt dialogues and powerful performances, follows the characters as they navigate love, life, and the challenges that come with them. Manasi’s portrayal of her character’s emotional and transformative journey has captivated audiences, making her a deserving recipient of the Best Actress award.
The 70th National Film Awards also saw Rishab Shetty winning the Best Actor award for his role in the blockbuster film Kantara. Kantara further solidified its place in Indian cinema by also winning the award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. The film, set in the fictional village of Dakshina Kannada, follows Shetty’s character, a Kambala champion, as he faces off against an upright Forest Range officer.
The jury for this year’s awards, led by 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 difficult task of selecting the best among a wealth of talent and creativity in Indian cinema.
As the winners of the 70th National Film Awards celebrate their achievements, it is clear that regional cinema continues to play a vital role in shaping the landscape of Indian film, bringing forth stories and performances that resonate with audiences across the country. The shared Best Actress award between Nithya Menen and Manasi Parekh is a testament to the power of strong female characters and the importance of diverse narratives in Indian cinema.
