Lights, camera, action… and awards! The 73rd National Film Awards were announced today, March 18, 2026, in New Delhi, and Bollywood is buzzing. From Kriti Sanon's powerful performance to regional cinema shining bright, the awards were a mixed bag of expected wins and delightful surprises. Let's dive into the details of who took home the coveted trophies and what it means for the Indian film industry.

Bollywood Dominates, But Regional Cinema Steals the Show

While Bollywood heavyweights like 'Gangubai Kathiawadi' and 'Shershaah' bagged multiple awards, it was the regional cinema that truly stole the show. 'Jai Bhim,' the Tamil courtroom drama, won Best Film, sparking celebrations across Tamil Nadu. Suriya, the film's lead actor and producer, dedicated the award to the tribal communities portrayed in the film. Speaking to News Reporter Live, Suriya said, "This award is for everyone who has fought against injustice. 'Jai Bhim' is more than just a film; it's a movement."

Alia Bhatt shared the Best Actress award with Kriti Sanon. Bhatt was recognized for her portrayal of Gangubai in 'Gangubai Kathiawadi,' while Sanon won for her role in 'Mimi.' 'Shershaah,' the biopic on Captain Vikram Batra, received the Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment award. The film, starring Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani, was a box office hit and garnered immense love from audiences. You can catch it now on Amazon Prime Video.

Performance Analysis and Snubs

One of the biggest talking points was the Best Actor award, which went to Ajay Devgn for 'Tanhaji: The Unsung Hero.' While Devgn's performance was appreciated, many felt that other actors like Vicky Kaushal ('Sardar Udham') were also strong contenders. The choice has sparked a debate on social media, with fans expressing mixed reactions. Reportersays, the jury's decision highlights the continued appreciation for historical dramas and patriotic themes.

Another surprise was the absence of 'The Kashmir Files' from the major categories. Despite its box office success and the controversies surrounding it, the film only managed to secure the Nargis Dutt Award for Best Film on National Integration. This has further fueled the ongoing discussions about the film's artistic merit versus its political messaging. As of this week, 'The Kashmir Files' is available for streaming on Zee5.

OTT Platforms Gain Recognition

The rise of OTT platforms was also evident in the awards, with several web series and films produced for digital streaming receiving recognition. 'Rocket Boys,' the web series based on the lives of Homi J. Bhabha and Vikram Sarabhai, won Best Web Series. This marks a significant shift in the industry, with digital content now competing with traditional cinema on a national level.

Industry experts believe that the National Film Awards are becoming more inclusive, recognizing talent from diverse backgrounds and platforms. “The awards are a reflection of the changing landscape of Indian cinema. OTT platforms have opened up new avenues for filmmakers and actors, and it's great to see them being acknowledged,” said film critic Anupama Chopra.

What to Watch Next?

If you're looking for more award-winning content, be sure to check out 'Jai Bhim' (available on Amazon Prime Video), 'Gangubai Kathiawadi' (available on Netflix), and 'Rocket Boys' (available on SonyLIV). Also, keep an eye out for upcoming releases from the winners, as they are sure to deliver more compelling performances and stories.