Bhubaneswar: 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 Saturday.
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 amid rapid commercialisation and the intrusion of superficial tourism. Through their journey, the film raises questions about development, identity and the survival of indigenous communities.
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 recognising an Odia regional film with this honour. 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.