Actor-turned-producer Niharika Konidela is on cloud nine as her film Committee Kurrollu has not only emerged as a commercial success but has also won the National Award for Best Telugu Film. On Tuesday, Niharika, along with director Yadhu Vamsee and make-up artist P Ravi Kumar, received the National Awards from the President of India at an event held in New Delhi.
Committee Kurrollu marked a landmark moment at the 72nd National Film Awards as the film’s honours were formally presented at the National Film Awards ceremony. Niharika Konidela, representing the producers Pink Elephant Pictures LLP and Shree Radha Damodara Studios, received the Rajat Kamal for Best Telugu Film, while director Yadhu Vamsee was also honoured with the prestigious award for the film. Adding to the achievement, P Ravi Kumar received the Best Make-up award for his work on Committee Kurrollu.
The proud occasion was witnessed by members of the film’s team and family, including Naga Babu, Padmaja Konidela and Phani Adapaka, who attended the ceremony alongside Niharika.
Committee Kurrollu, a rooted Telugu story backed by a new generation of talent, went on to earn the country’s premier cinematic recognition. For Niharika Konidela, the occasion carried particular significance as the film marked her debut as a feature-film producer. Director Yadhu Vamsee also made his directorial debut with the film, alongside an ensemble of 16 newcomers. Director Yadhu Vamsee also received the Rajat Kamal for his directorial contribution to the film.
Set against the backdrop of a small Andhra village, the film follows a close-knit group of friends while exploring themes of friendship, caste, class, identity, social divisions and collective responsibility. It balances humour, nostalgia and emotion with a strong social undercurrent.
P Ravi Kumar, who received the Best Make-up honour, also played an important role in creating the film’s visual authenticity. His work was particularly significant in portraying the large ensemble of characters and the passage of time within the story. The award recognises the technical craft that helped create the film’s grounded and believable world.
