Double Victory at National Awards: Anant V Joshi Celebrates Wins for 'Kathal' and '12th Fail'
Mumbai, Aug 2 (TheTrendingPeople.com):
Actor Anant V Joshi is elated as both of his recent projects — the satirical comedy Kathal and the biographical drama 12th Fail — were honoured at the National Film Awards 2025. While Kathal won Best Hindi Film, 12th Fail took home the prestigious title of Best Feature Film.
Speaking on this milestone, Anant shared,
“It is a matter of immense pride to be part of both Kathal and 12th Fail and to see them receive such national recognition.”
“Grateful to Be Part of True Stories”: Anant V Joshi
Thanking the producers behind both films, Anant said,
“I’m extremely grateful to Guneet Monga, Achin Jain, and Ekta Kapoor for Kathal, and to Vidhu Vinod Chopra for 12th Fail, for backing such powerful stories. What makes this moment even more special is that both films are inspired by true events.”
The actor noted that the recognition and love his characters have received in these films is deeply motivating.
“I hope to continue choosing stories that resonate with a larger consciousness while entertaining audiences,” he added.
Sanya Malhotra Recalls Her Emotional Prep for Kathal
Celebrating Kathal's win, actress Sanya Malhotra, who played the role of Mahima in the film, shared behind-the-scenes photos and memories from the shoot. She recalled a key moment from her prep in Ghatigaon, where the real-life story that inspired Kathal took shape.
“Meeting the people who inspired the story changed something in me. I remember sitting in the car holding onto the weight of what it meant to play Mahima. I was overwhelmed, humbled, and so deeply grateful,” she posted on Instagram.
Vikrant Massey Dedicates Best Actor Award to the Marginalised
Meanwhile, Vikrant Massey, who played the lead in 12th Fail, was awarded the Best Actor honour. In a heartfelt message, he dedicated his award to the underrepresented and underprivileged sections of society.
“I dedicate this award to all the marginalised people in our society — those who are often looked through, and those who are fighting the socio-economic paradigm of our country every single day,” Vikrant wrote.
About the Films
- Kathal, directed by Yashowardhan Mishra, is a satirical comedy that spins a humorous tale around a missing jackfruit in a small town and features social commentary hidden within laughter.
- 12th Fail, directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, is based on the real-life story of IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma, chronicling his inspiring journey from poverty to cracking one of India’s toughest exams.
Both films have received critical acclaim for their storytelling, strong performances, and social relevance.
The National Film Awards 2025 have not only reaffirmed the importance of real-life stories in Indian cinema but also highlighted the talent of a new generation of performers and filmmakers willing to push boundaries.