Bengaluru: The highly anticipated nominations for the V Chandanavana Film Critics Academy Awards 2024 have been revealed, showcasing a remarkable 15 nominations for the Darshan Thoogudeepa starrer Kaatera. This Sandalwood hit has been recognized in various categories, including Best Film, Best Direction (Tharun Sudhir), and Best Actor (Darshan). Following closely is Rakshit Shetty’s Sapta Sagaradaache Ello, the 2023 sensation in the Kannada film industry, securing an impressive 13 nominations.
The nominations, spanning 25 categories and including five debut awards, reflect the careful consideration of Kannada film journalists. Debut films like Hostel Hudugaru Bekaagiddare, Daredevil Musthafa, and Achar & Co are among the contenders for top honors in this category.
The unveiling of the nominations took place on Tuesday, setting the stage for the awards ceremony scheduled for February 28, where winners will be announced and trophies distributed. The newly introduced trophy was presented by actor Sharan, filmmaker Indrajit Lankesh, and actress Amulya.
Sharan expressed his appreciation, stating, “This is an unparalleled and incredible effort by Kannada film journalists. As actors, awards provide us with an added responsibility to enhance ourselves. The Chandanavana Awards by Kannada film journalists are a unique honor.”
Lankesh shared his pride, saying, “Being a journalist myself, I am proud of how the Academy and the Critics’ Awards have become symbols of impartiality and trust. The objectivity of film critics in recognizing the best of Kannada entertainment is a significant contribution to the film industry.”
This year’s awards carry the theme of organ donation, with the Academy partnering with the Health Department to encourage 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.”
Among the notable nominees this year are actress Ramya in the Best Debut Producer 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.
