71st National Film Awards: Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery Wins Best Hindi Film

Ziya Khan August 2, 2025Last Updated: August 2, 2025

The winners of the 71st National Film Awards were announced at the National Media Centre in New Delhi on Friday, celebrating outstanding films certified in 2023. Among the top honorees, Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery emerged as a standout, winning the coveted Best Hindi Film award. Produced by Guneet Monga Kapoor under the Sikhya Entertainment banner, this satirical social drama was praised for its sharp storytelling and meaningful themes.

Expressing her gratitude, Guneet Monga Kapoor said, “Every time a story from the heart of India is honoured, it’s a win for every voice that deserves to be heard. We are incredibly honoured to receive the Best Hindi Film award for Kathal at the 71st National Film Awards. Grateful beyond words for this recognition.”She applauded director Yashowardhan Mishra and co-writer Ashok Mishra for crafting a story that is “sharp, original, and deeply human.” Guneet also thanked her producing partners Ekta Kapoor and Shobha Kapoor of Balaji Telefilms, Netflix India, and her Sikhya Entertainment team, including co-producer Achin Jain.

Special recognition was reserved for lead actress Sanya Malhotra for her compelling portrayal of Mahima, a determined police officer. Guneet remarked, “Kathal wouldn’t have been possible without the unconditional support of my co-producer Achin Jain and the incredible Sikhya Entertainment team. And to Sanya Malhotra, your performance was both powerful and full of heart.”

She added, “You brought Mahima to life with nuance, warmth, and unwavering strength—dil jeet liya! Thank you for leading this story with such grace, authenticity, and quiet power.” Set and filmed entirely in the culturally rich state of Madhya Pradesh, Kathal is a satirical tale rooted in everyday life, reminding us that truth often hides in unexpected places. “MP ki saadgi ne humari film ko aur khoobsurat bana diya! This win is for every storyteller who dares to look closer and tell stories that matter. Bahut bahut shukriya!”With this accolade, Kathal solidifies its place as one of the year’s most impactful films, continuing Guneet Monga Kapoor’s legacy of producing socially conscious cinema with heart.