Netflix's Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery, starring Sanya Malhotra, has bagged the Best Hindi Film award at the 71st National Film Awards, and the film's producers Guneet Monga Kapoor, Achin Jain, and Ektaa R Kapoor couldn't be more thrilled. The quirky satire, set in the fictional small town of Moba, was recognised for its sharp storytelling and unique voice that resonated with both audiences and the jury.
Reacting to the win, Guneet, Producer and CEO at Sikhya Entertainment, along with co-producer Achin, said in a joint statement, "We are 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."
They further applauded the creative team, adding, "Congratulations to our director Yashowardhan Mishra, and his co-writer Ashok Mishra, for crafting a story that is sharp, original, and deeply human."
Monga and Jain also acknowledged the platform that brought the film to audiences. "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," they said.
Ektaa Kapoor, Joint Managing Director of Balaji Telefilms, also shared her excitement. "Kathal winning the National Award is a deeply special moment for us. This film was born out of an intent to tell rooted, quirky stories that connect with every Indian household. I'm 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."
Monika Shergill, Vice President - Content, Netflix India, shared, "We are incredibly honoured and grateful. This win is a moment of immense pride for everyone who brought this extraordinary film to life. 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."
Directed by Yashowardhan Mishra and led by Sanya, Kathal premiered on Netflix in May 2023 and was appreciated for its satirical lens on bureaucracy and politics.
