Anupam Patnaik Bags Best Director Award for ‘Karma’

Bhubaneswar: National Award-winning filmmaker Anupam Patnaik has added another feather to his cap by winning the Best Director award for his latest blockbuster Karma, which also bagged the Best Film award from Banichitra. The high-octane action thriller stars popular actor Anubhav Mohanty in the lead.

Sharing his heartfelt reaction, Anupam Patnaik said, *”Truly honoured to receive the Best Film and Best Director awards from Banichitra for *Karma*. My heartfelt thanks to Bhaskar Jena babu for carrying forward the legacy of Parikhit Babu, whose vision had given birth to Banichitra. This recognition means a lot to me and my team. Thank you for the love and encouragement. Jai Jagannath.”*

Released on October 9 last year, Karma has created box office history, completing fifty successful days in theatres and still running housefull in over 40 cinema halls across Odisha. The film had a spectacular opening, collecting Rs 37.90 lakhs on its first day and grossing Rs 3.01 crore in its first week.

Anubhav Mohanty portrays Amar Patnaik, the head of a Special Investigation Team racing against time to crack a high-profile murder case, navigating intense challenges along the way. The film also features **Suryamayee Mohapatra, Divya Mohanty, Manmay Dey, Sanoj Kumar, Nishant Majithia, Chaudhary Jayprakash Dash**, and others in key roles.

One of the highlights of Karma is its hit song “Chiring Chiring”, sung by Humane Sagar**, penned by Manoj Kumar Panda, and composed by Ashish Pradhan. The track has taken social media by storm, garnering over 18 million views and continuing to trend across platforms.

Produced under the banner of **Amiya Productions**, *Karma* marks the **first collaboration** between Anubhav Mohanty and Anupam Patnaik. The film is jointly produced by **Barsha Patnaik** and Anupam Patnaik. The story, screenplay, and dialogues have been crafted by **Manas Padhiary**, with additional dialogue contributions from **Nishant Majithia**.

Coming on the heels of his critically acclaimed *Pratikshya*, which won both National and State Awards, Anupam Patnaik continues to prove his mettle as a visionary filmmaker blending commercial success with storytelling excellence.