The Telugu film industry is celebrating a significant win at the 71st National Film Awards as "Bhagavanth Kesari" has been declared the Best Telugu Film for the year 2023. The film, starring Nandamuri Balakrishna and Sreeleela in key roles, has garnered acclaim for its blend of action, emotion, and a strong social message.
"Bhagavanth Kesari" stood out for its powerful message, encapsulated in the tagline “Bano Beti Ko Sher” (Raise daughters like lions), which resonated deeply with audiences. The film addresses the sensitive topic of good touch and bad touch, aiming to educate audiences, especially younger viewers and parents, on the importance of awareness and protection.
Sreeleela, who played a pivotal role in the movie, has not yet released a public statement regarding the win. However, the film's success is a testament to the impactful storytelling and the strong performances of the cast.
Directed by Anil Ravipudi and produced by Sahu Garapati and Harish Peddi under Shine Screens banner, "Bhagavanth Kesari" features Nandamuri Balakrishna in the titular role, alongside Kajal Aggarwal and Arjun Rampal. Arjun Rampal made his Telugu debut with this film. The movie's music, composed by Thaman S, has also been widely appreciated.
Released on October 19, 2023, during Dussehra, "Bhagavanth Kesari" has become a celebrated milestone in Balakrishna's career and in Telugu cinema. The film is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video in Telugu, as well as in dubbed versions in Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi.
The 71st National Film Awards ceremony also saw other prominent wins, with Shah Rukh Khan (for "Jawan") and Vikrant Massey (for "12th Fail") sharing the Best Actor award, and Rani Mukerji winning Best Actress for "Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway". "12th Fail" was honored as the Best Feature Film.
"Bhagavanth Kesari's" win is not just a recognition of cinematic excellence but also a celebration of its commitment to social responsibility. This National Award marks a proud moment for the entire cast and crew, solidifying the film's place as one of the most meaningful and successful Telugu films in recent years.
