The 72nd National Film Awards brought together some of the biggest names in Indian cinema at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, on September 22. President Droupadi Murmu presented the honours at the National Film Awards ceremony, which was held outside New Delhi for the first time. The event recognised films certified in 2024, spanning mainstream releases, regional cinema and individual performances.
Mammootty, Kartik Aaryan and Yami Gautam were among the evening’s prominent winners, each marking a distinct moment in their careers. Mammootty shared the Best Actor award for Bramayugam with Kartik Aaryan, who was recognised for Chandu Champion, while Yami Gautam won Best Actress for Article 370. The honours placed three very different performances at the centre of the National Film Awards 2026.
Mammootty And Kartik Aaryan Win
Mammootty’s recognition for Bramayugam adds another National Film Award to the veteran Malayalam actor’s long list of achievements.
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His performance as Kodumon Potti, a mysterious and powerful feudal figure in Rahul Sadasivan’s period horror film, had already drawn attention for its stark, atmospheric treatment.
The honour marks Kartik Aaryan’s first National Film Award. His performance in Chandu Champion saw him portray Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medallist, in the Kabir Khan-directed sports drama. The role required a substantial physical transformation as well as a performance built around Petkar’s journey from soldier to champion.
Yami Gautam’s win came for Article 370, where she played intelligence officer Zooni Haksar. Directed by Aditya Suhas Jambhale, the film also won Best Feature Film, making it one of the major titles recognised at this year’s Indian film awards 2026. For Gautam, the award marks her first National Film Award.
Regional Cinema Shares Spotlight
The acting honours formed only one part of a wider awards list that reflected the breadth of Indian filmmaking. Rajkumar Periasamy won Best Direction for Amaran, while Kalki 2898 AD received Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment.
Randeep Hooda was recognised with a Special Mention for Swatantrya Veer Savarkar.
The supporting categories brought further recognition to established performers. Sanjay Mishra won Best Supporting Actor for Bhakshak.
While Ropashree Varkady and Sachana Namidass shared Best Supporting Actress for Mithya and Maharaja, respectively. Dhanush also received a Special Mention for Captain Miller.
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The 72nd National Film Awards also highlighted India’s linguistic diversity, with recognition extending to films across several Indian languages and regional industries.
Veteran actor Anant Nag received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024, adding a lifetime achievement honour to an evening that brought together different generations and strands of Indian cinema.
