Kannada cinema has once again found a place among the 400 films in 34 languages with total 43 awards at the 72nd National Film Awards. From Mithya's multiple wins to Imbu bringing home the Best Tulu Film honour, Karnataka's stories found well-deserved recognition on the national stage.

The biggest winner for the state was Mithya, which was named Best Kannada Film. Directed by Sumanth Bhat and produced by Rakshit Shetty's Paramvah Studios, the film has been celebrated ever since its festival run for its quiet, deeply felt storytelling. The award is a well-deserved recognition for a film that stood out for its quiet, emotional storytelling, and had music by Midhun Mukundhan.

The film picked up two more honours. Athish Shetty won the National Award for Best Child Artist for his performance in Mithya, while Roopashree was recognised with the Best Supporting Actor award.

There was more good news from coastal Karnataka. Imbu, directed by Shivadhwaj Shetty and produced by Pitcher Studio, won the National Award for Best Tulu Film. The recognition is another proud moment for Tulu cinema, which continues to earn attention with stories rooted in the culture and people of the region.

Kannada cinema also made its mark beyond the screen. Naaniruvude Nimagaagi, Naadiruvude Nanagaagi: Kannada Cinemada Tatva Mattu Rajakeeya, written by Kenchanur Pradeep Kumar Shetty and published by Mirror Books, won the National Award for Best Book on Cinema. The book explores the ideas, politics and evolution of Kannada cinema.