After a 14-year pause, state-sponsored film awards made a spectacular return with the inaugural Telangana Gaddar Film Awards 2024, held at the Hitex Exhibition Arena in Hyderabad. The event not only marked the revival of cinematic recognition in Telangana but also paid tribute to revolutionary balladeer Gaddar, in whose honor the awards are named.

Spearheaded by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, the awards reflect the government’s commitment to honoring artistic excellence and celebrating the Telugu film industry. The glittering ceremony was attended by a galaxy of stars and dignitaries, including Deputy CM Bhatti Vikramarka, Cinematography Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, and TSFDC Chairman Dil Raju.

The evening was further elevated by the presence of Tollywood legends such as Nandamuri Balakrishna, Allu Arjun, Chiranjeevi, Nagarjuna, and veteran actresses Jayasudha, Jayaprada, and Suhasini Maniratnam, who together added prestige and glamour to the event.

A powerful performance by folk singer Mangli brought the audience to its feet, especially with her rendition of the revolutionary anthem “Bandi Enuka Bandi Gatti” from Maa Bhoomi—a heartfelt tribute to Gaddar. She thanked CM Revanth Reddy and the audience for the opportunity to honor the late icon.

Major Award Highlights:

Best Actor: Allu Arjun for his compelling performance in Pushpa 2. The star greeted the CM on stage and delighted fans by delivering a fiery dialogue from the film: “Na koduku ni choosthe nee thala teestha… Thaggede Le!”

Best Actress: Nivetha Thomas for her nuanced role in 35: Chinna Katha Kaadu.

Best Director: Nag Ashwin for his ambitious sci-fi epic Kalki 2898 AD, which also swept several categories:

NTR National Award: Veteran actor and political leader Nandamuri Balakrishna was honored with this prestigious recognition, presented after a 13-year gap.

The Telangana Gaddar Film Awards 2024 have set a new benchmark for honoring cinematic talent in the state, blending tradition, innovation, and tribute in a night that will be remembered for years to come.