Kaatera dominate critics' nominations in Sandalwood

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: The nominations for the 2024 V Chandanavana Film Critics Academy Awards were unveiled on Tuesday morning, putting the Sandalwood blockbuster Kaatera in the spotlight with an impressive 15 nominations.

Among its recognitions, the film received nominations for Best Film, Best Direction (Tharun Sudhir), Best Actor (Darshan), and various technical categories.

Following closely is the 2023 sensation from the Kannada film industry, Sapta Sagaradaache Ello, securing 13 nominations.

These nominations, spanning 25 categories, including five debut awards, are the outcome of the discerning judgment of Kannada film journalists.

The debut category sees Hostel Hudugaru Bekaagiddare, Daredevil Musthafa, Achar & Co competing for top honors.

The Academy unveiled the nominations on Tuesday morning, setting the stage for the awards ceremony scheduled on February 28. The winners will be announced, and trophies distributed during the ceremony.

The newly revealed trophy was introduced by actor Sharan, filmmaker Indrajit Lankesh, and actress Amulya.

Lankesh expressed pride, stating, "As a journalist myself, I am proud of how the Academy and the Critics’ Awards have come to symbolize impartiality and trust. The objectivity of film critics in recognizing the best of Kannada entertainment is a significant contribution to the film industry."

Sharan expressed gratitude for being recognized by critics and highlighted the unique nature of these awards.

"This must be the most unique awards we have. The appreciation and criticisms by critics help filmmakers grow. I consider each of the five nominees in each category a winner. If they have made it this far in the eyes of critics, it is as good as winning."

This year's awards carry the theme of organ donation, with the Academy partnering with the Health Department to promote organ donation registration.

Over two dozen celebrities have pledged their support for this initiative. Wilfred Samson of Kauvery Hospitals, Bengaluru, supporting the cause, remarked, "We know how Dr. Rajkumar and Puneeth Rajkumar influenced the eye-donation campaign immensely. Similarly, the organ donations of late actors like Sanchari Vijay and Lokesh spread awareness. We are proud to be part of this association."

Actress Amulya extended her best wishes to all nominees and hinted at a possible comeback, saying, "Awards are not only recognitions for actors but also inspire us. When the awards are given by critics, there can be no bigger applause for our work. I wish I would be among the nominees and win an award from the critics." 

Among the notable nominees this year a actress Ramya Best Debut Actor category for her film Swati Muttina Male Haniye, actor Daali Dhananjaya in the Best Lyrics category for Sambanja Andre in the film Tagaru Palya, and popular singer MD Pallavi in the Best Supporting Actress category for the film 19.20.21.

Kaatera and Sapta Sagaradaache Ello are set to compete in eight categories.