New Delhi, July 20 (UDN): Amartya Bhattacharyya’s Odia-language film Lahari has been adjudged the Best Odia Film at the 72nd National Film Awards, bringing national recognition to Odisha’s film industry.
The awards, announced by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, honoured films certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) during 2024. The recognition marks a significant achievement for Odia cinema and highlights the state’s evolving storytelling tradition.
Directed by Amartya Bhattacharyya, Lahari is known for its unique narrative style and visual presentation. The film explores the life of a fisherman named Dinu and portrays the conflict between tradition and progress while focusing on family relationships and changing social values.
The film features Ahmad Al-Ghaili, Prasanta Kumar Behera, and Jhilik Bhattacharjee in prominent roles and was released in 2025.
At the 72nd National Film Awards, Article 370 was honoured as the Best Feature Film, while Yami Gautam received the Best Actress award for the film. Mammootty and Kartik Aaryan shared the Best Actor honour, while Rajkummar Rao-starrer Srikanth was recognised as the Best Hindi Film.
The honour for Lahari is expected to further strengthen the presence of Odia cinema on the national platform and encourage regional filmmakers to create impactful stories.
