The 71st National Film Awards were announced today at the National Media Centre in New Delhi. The awards recognize films certified by the Central Board of Film Certification between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2023.

Best Hindi Film

Sanya Malhotra's Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery has won the Best Hindi Film award. In Kathal, Sanya Malhotra plays a small-town cop in pursuit of missing jackfruits. Critics have appreciated her comic timing in the film. She played the role of Mahima Basor, blending humor with grace. Sanya Malhotra has received the Best Actor Web Original Film Critics’ (Female) award at Filmfare awards in Mumbai for her role in "Kathal".

Best Actor

Shah Rukh Khan for Jawan and Vikrant Massey for 12th Fail have both won the Best Actor award. Vikrant Massey was widely expected to win Best Actor for his performance in 12th Fail. Vikrant Massey's performance in '12th Fail' has earned particular praise for its sincerity and emotional depth. 12th Fail, directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, is based on the real-life story of Manoj Kumar Sharma, who overcame poverty to become an IPS officer.

Best Actress

Rani Mukerji has won the Best Actress award for her role in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway. Rani Mukerji was seen as a strong contender for Best Actress for her role in 'Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway'. In Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway, directed by Ashima Chibber, Rani Mukerji portrays Sagarika Chakraborty, an Indian mother who fought the Norwegian child welfare system after her children were taken away over cultural misunderstandings. Rani Mukerji's performance has been described as powerful and moving.

Other Awards

12th Fail has also won the Best Feature Film award. Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani might earn the Best Film accolade.

The National Film Awards are among the most prestigious awards in Indian cinema, recognizing outstanding artistic contributions across various categories.