The announcement of the 72nd National Film Awards brought significant celebration across the Indian film industry, with the Rajkummar Rao starrer 'Srikanth' securing the prestigious Best Hindi Feature Film award. This recognition marks far more than mere cinematic triumph; it serves as a tribute to the unwavering spirit, persistence, and vision of visually impaired entrepreneur Srikanth Bolla. Having previously won widespread critical acclaim and audience appreciation during its theatrical release, the biographical drama has now achieved the highest official honour in Indian cinema.
Sharad Kelkar on the Purpose Behind Storytelling
Expressing immense joy over the national recognition, actor Sharad Kelkar reflected on the underlying intent behind making the film. He emphasized that certain projects are undertaken not merely to demonstrate acting chops or win trophies, but to honor stories that truly matter. Kelkar remarked, "Some films you do for your acting, and some because they remind you why stories need to be told in the first place." He shared that when director Tushar Hiranandani first presented the script, the team had no thoughts of awards. Their sole commitment was to remain faithful to Srikanth Bolla's inspiring journey and showcase his extraordinary determination.
Portraying Ravi Mantha and the Power of Trust
In the movie, Sharad Kelkar essayed the role of businessman Ravi Mantha, who served not only as an early investor in Srikanth's venture but also as a steadfast mentor and friend. Kelkar noted that playing this character allowed him to closely experience the profound strength of trust and human connections. He added that receiving the National Award serves as a powerful validation of cinema driven by honesty and heart. The film effectively dismantles traditional tropes, proving that strong determination can overcome any physical limitation when dreams are pursued with conviction.
Inclusivity in Casting and Cinematic Excellence
Helmed by director Tushar Hiranandani, 'Srikanth' stands out for both its stellar performances and its progressive approach to filmmaking. Rajkummar Rao delivered a deeply moving performance in the lead role, ably supported by Jyothika, Alaya F, and Sharad Kelkar. A defining aspect of the film was its commitment to real-world inclusivity, providing genuine performance opportunities to several visually impaired actors. This National Award confirms that when cinema is created with genuine intent and social consciousness, it leaves an enduring imprint on viewers nationwide.
