Former Odisha Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik congratulated the cast and crew of Odia feature film Lahari after it won the Best Odia Film award at the 72nd National Film Awards.
Patnaik also met and greeted the film’s producer, Jhilik Bhattacharjee, who received the National Film Award on behalf of the film.
Sharing his appreciation, Patnaik said the recognition was a matter of great joy and pride for Odia cinema. He praised the film’s portrayal of social values and emotional depth and expressed hope that such efforts would continue to enrich Odisha’s artistic and cultural landscape.
“Met and greeted the producer of ‘Lahari’, who received the National Film Award as the Best Odia Cinema. Let such efforts be strengthened in enriching the art world of Odisha,” Patnaik said in a post marking the occasion.
‘Lahari’ wins Best Odia Film
Lahari, directed by Amartya Bhattacharyya and produced by Jhilik Bhattacharjee, was honoured at the 72nd National Film Awards, bringing national recognition to Odisha’s regional film industry.
The film has been noted for combining a distinctly local cultural identity with an international creative approach. Artists from around 15 countries were involved in the project, while its storytelling remains rooted in Odisha’s traditions and cultural landscape.
The National Film Award recognition has further drawn attention to the growing reach of Odia cinema beyond the state.
Patnaik praises creative efforts
Patnaik’s meeting with Bhattacharjee and his congratulatory message highlighted the significance of the award for Odisha’s film and broader art community.
He called for efforts such as Lahari to be strengthened, with the aim of enriching Odisha’s artistic world. His remarks also underlined the role of cinema in showcasing the state’s cultural identity while engaging with wider creative communities.
The award has placed the spotlight on the filmmakers and artists associated with Lahari, particularly director Amartya Bhattacharyya and producer Jhilik Bhattacharjee.
