Netflix’s Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery Wins Best Hindi Film at the 71st National Film Awards

Inspired by a local news article, Netflix’s ‘Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery’ (https://www.netflix.com/title/81511260) has gone on to make national headlines, winning the Best Hindi Film award at the 71st National Film Awards for the Year 2023. Produced by Sikhya Entertainment and Balaji Telefilms, the film is a shining example of how rooted, heartland stories can find both critical acclaim and national recognition.  

This win marks another proud milestone in Netflix India’s journey of championing authentic Indian storytelling. From the Oscar-winning Elephant Whisperers to bringing home the International Emmy for Delhi Crime and Vir Das: Landing, these moments reaffirm Netflix’s belief in the power of good stories, told with heart, reaching audiences at home and across the globe.

Directed by Yashowardhan Mishra and written in collaboration with his father, Ashok Mishra, the film is a quirky satire set in the fictional small town of Moba. Led by the talented Sanya Malhotra, as the sincere and spirited police officer Mahima, alongside a delightful ensemble including Rajpal Yadav, Vijay Raaz, Anantvijay Joshi, and Neha Saraf, the film brings to life characters from the Indian heartland with both warmth and wit. 

While announcing the award, filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker, also a jury member, commended the film, saying, “For creating a mystery that peels back the absurd layers of bureaucracy and politics with a deliciously sharp satire that serves a hilarious yet thought-provoking take on misplaced priorities.” 

The film also marks another successful collaboration between Netflix and Sikhya Entertainment, following acclaimed titles like Oscar-winning ‘The Elephant Whispers’, the profound Pagglait, and documentaries like Yo Yo Honey Singh: Famous and Anuja. The collaboration is a testament to the commitment to ensuring great stories are told to the world. 

Director, Yashowardhan Mishra, delightedly shared: “I'm thankful to the jury for this great honour. It is incredibly reaffirming to be recognised for the work we do and the stories we choose to tell. I am grateful to have found collaborators in Guneet Monga Kapoor, Achin Jain, Balaji, Ekta Kapoor, and Netflix. I share this award with my wonderful cast and crew who shaped the film in myriad ways.”

Monika Shergill, Vice President - Content, Netflix India, shares, “We are incredibly honoured and grateful to celebrate Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery being awarded Best Hindi Feature Film at the 71st National Film Awards, the highest and most prestigious recognition in Indian cinema. The National Awards are a benchmark of creative excellence and cultural impact, and this win is a moment of immense pride for everyone who brought this extraordinary film to life. Under debut director Yashowardhan Mishra’s distinctive vision, and co-written with the acclaimed Ashok Mishra, Kathal is powered by the creative brilliance of our long-time collaborators Balaji Telefilms and Sikhya Entertainment. The film delivers a razor-sharp, socially charged satire rooted in rural India, a story told with rare wit, authenticity, and insight. Sanya Malhotra’s heartfelt and layered performance anchors the film with emotional resonance, portraying a character both grounded and powerful. This recognition reaffirms Netflix’s commitment to championing stories that are meaningful and deeply rooted in the fabric of India.”

Producer and CEO at Sikhya Entertainment, Guneet Monga Kapoor, and Producer Achin Jain shared: “We are incredibly honoured to receive the Best Hindi Film award for Kathal at the 71st National Film Awards. Every time a story from the heart of India is honoured, it’s a win for every voice that deserves to be heard. A heartfelt congratulations to our brilliant director Yashowardhan Mishra, and his co-writer Ashok Mishra, for crafting a story that is sharp, original, and deeply human. Huge thanks to our producing partners Ekta Kapoor and Shobha Kapoor at Balaji Telefilms, and the entire team Sikhya Entertainment. Immense gratitude for our trusted platform partner Netflix India and the incredible Monika Shergill, Ruchika Kapoor Sheikh. Shout out to Pratiksha Rao and Ankita Singh who started this journey. And to Sanya Malhotra, who brought Mahima to life with such nuance, warmth, and unwavering strength! Kathal is a satirical tale rooted in the everyday, a reminder that truth often hides in the most unexpected places. This win is for every storyteller who dares to look closer and tell stories that matter.”

Ektaa R Kapoor, Joint Managing Director at Balaji Telefilms, shared, “Kathal winning the National Award is a deeply special moment for all of us at Balaji. This film was born out of an intent to tell rooted, quirky stories that connect with every Indian household. I'm so proud of our team for believing in the madness and magic of this story. A big thank you to the audience and jury for the love. This win only pushes us to back more such fearless storytelling.”

Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery premiered on Netflix on 19th May 2023 and continues to receive love for its original, rooted, and refreshingly irreverent take oaward-winning titled h this award-winning title only on Netflix

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