Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 2: At the 71st National Film Awards, 13 regional films across 13 different Indian languages, including Kannada, were honoured in the regional cinema category.

Best Kannada Film: 'Kandeelu'

The Kannada film Kandeelu, directed and produced by Yashodha Prakash Kottukattira from Madikeri in Kodagu district, has won the Best Kannada Feature Film award. Produced under the banner of Swastik Entertainment, Kandeelu tells a heartfelt story rooted in a rural village, revolving around the life of a farmer and his family. The narrative draws inspiration from real-life experiences, adding authenticity and emotional depth to the film.

Best Script (Non-Feature): 'Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know'

In the non-feature category, Mysuru-based filmmaker Chidananda Naik’s short film Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know was selected for the Best Script Award. The film has already gained international acclaim, having won the La Cinef Award at the Cannes Film Festival, and now secures a prestigious National Film Award as well.

These accolades mark a proud moment for Kannada cinema, celebrating both traditional storytelling and modern cinematic expression on national and global platforms.