‘Lahari’ Wins Best Odia Feature Film at 72nd National Film Awards

Bhubaneswar/New Delhi: Lahari, the acclaimed 2025 Odia feature film directed by Amartya Bhattacharyya, has won the Best Odia Feature Film award at the 72nd National Film Awards, the winners of which were announced by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting at a press conference held at the National Media Centre, New Delhi, on Saturday evening.

Produced by Jhilik Bhattacharjee, Lahari is a poignant social drama that explores the conflict between tradition and urban capitalism in a rural Indian setting. The film follows two close friends—Dinu, a fisherman, and Bhuta, a boatman—as they struggle to preserve their traditional livelihoods and way of life in the face of rapid commercialization and the intrusion of superficial tourism. Through their journey, the film raises questions about development, identity and the survival of indigenous communities.

Widely appreciated for its evocative storytelling, stunning visuals and nuanced performances, Lahari has been praised for presenting a deeply rooted narrative that reflects the changing socio-economic realities of rural Odisha.

Reacting to the national honour, producer Jhilik Bhattacharjee thanked the people of Odisha and the country for embracing the film.

“I sincerely thank the people of Odisha, my state, and my beloved nation, India, for embracing and recognizing an Odia regional film with the honour of the 72nd National Film Award for Best Odia Feature Film Lahari. This recognition is not just an award—it is a proud moment for Odia cinema and for everyone who believes in the power of meaningful storytelling,” she said.

Jhilik expressed gratitude to director Amartya Bhattacharyya, the cast and the entire crew for their dedication and commitment in bringing the film to life. She said the recognition belonged to everyone who worked tirelessly behind the scenes and believed in the project.

Calling the award a testament to hard work, honesty and perseverance, she said that sincere efforts are eventually recognised and celebrated, even if success does not come immediately.

The National Film Award, one of India’s highest honours in cinema, is expected to further elevate the profile of Odia cinema across the country. Lahari’s victory is being seen as a significant milestone for the state’s film industry and a recognition of the growing strength of content-driven regional cinema.

Jhilik dedicated the award to the entire Lahari team and everyone who supported the film, concluding her message with, “Jai Jagannath.”