The 72nd National Film Awards have brought a proud moment for Telugu cinema as 35: Chinna Katha Kaadu emerged as one of the biggest winners. The heartfelt family drama won two prestigious National Awards: Best Children’s Film and Best Child Artiste for Arundev Pothula.
The film's remarkable achievement has been widely celebrated by the Telugu film industry and audiences alike. It marks yet another proud milestone for Tollywood on the national stage.
35 Chinna Katha Kaadu Shines at the 72nd National Film Awards
Presented by Rana Daggubati and directed by debutant Nanda Kishore Emani, 35: Chinna Katha Kaadu delivered an outstanding performance at the 72nd National Film Awards.
The producers expressed their happiness, stating that only 13 Telugu films have received the prestigious Golden Lotus (Swarna Kamalam) in the history of the National Film Awards. They called it a matter of immense pride that 35: Chinna Katha Kaadu has now joined this exclusive list.
The film won:
- Best Children’s Film
- Best Child Artiste – Arundev Pothula
Telugu Films That Have Won the Prestigious Golden Lotus
35: Chinna Katha Kaadu has now become the 13th Telugu film to receive the prestigious Golden Lotus at the National Film Awards.
| Year | Film | Award Category |
|---|---|---|
| 1980 | Shankarabharanam | Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment |
| 1989 | Geethanjali | Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment |
| 1997 | Bala Ramayanam | Best Children’s Film |
| 2001 | Tiladaanam | Best Debut Film of a Director |
| 2004 | Grahanam | Best Debut Film of a Director |
| 2015 | Baahubali: The Beginning | Best Feature Film |
| 2016 | Shatamanam Bhavati | Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment |
| 2017 | Baahubali 2: The Conclusion | Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment |
| 2019 | Maharshi | Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment |
| 2021 | RRR | Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment |
| 2023 | Hanu-Man | Best Animation Film |
| 2024 | Kalki 2898 AD | Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment |
| 2024 | 35: Chinna Katha Kaadu | Best Children’s Film |
About the Film
Set against the backdrop of Tirupati, 35: Chinna Katha Kaadu is a touching family drama that revolves around a mother’s unwavering determination to help her son overcome his biggest academic challenge.
Although the boy excels in every subject, he constantly scores zero marks in Mathematics. The story beautifully portrays the emotional journey of a mother who fights against all odds to help her son secure the passing mark of 35, making it an inspiring tale of love, hope, and perseverance.
Cast and Crew
35: Chinna Katha Kaadu is co-written and directed by Nanda Kishore Emani, with Prashanth Vignesh Amaravadhi serving as the co-writer.
The film stars Nivetha Thomas, Vishwadev Rachakonda, Arundev Pothula, and Priyadarshi Pulikonda in lead roles. Veteran actors Gautami Tadimalla and K. Bhagyaraj play key supporting roles alongside Abhay Shankar, Ananya Maadgula, and Krishna Teja.
Produced by Srujan Yarabolu and Siddharth Rallapalli under the banners S Originals and Waltair Productions, the film is presented by Suresh Productions. The music is composed by Vivek Sagar.