Director Praveen Sattaru wins National Award for best Telugu film

Hyderabad: The small-budget film, Chandamama Kathalu, has won the National Award for best Telugu film over biggies like Manam.

Thanking the actors and technicians who were part of the film, director Praveen Sattaru said, “When I sent this film for the National Awards I never thought that it would be adjudged the Best Film. But I strongly believed that it would get an award in the cinematography department."

“I believe there were two reasons why I got this award. The first is that it is a very realistic film and you can relate to the characters. The second is the screenplay. Also, the beautiful cinematography captured the realistic moments and the music was a big advantage."

“I didn’t make films with an eye on awards. I make them according to my thoughts and my script. I don’t think that this award will put pressure on me when I start my next film. But this award will definitely give all of us a big morale boost. We believed in the subject. We didn’t get the desired revenues and it didn’t make any impact. Even the reviews didn’t favour us. But winning the National Award is a big compliment. We are now reassured that we made the right product.” “We have to make films according to our subjects and give our heart and soul. If you are a skilled technician, you will definitely get noticed, even after 100 films. “So many new filmmakers have entered the industry in the last few years. They made films with some innovative subjects and were successful. I am confident that the next generation of filmmakers will take the industry towards a new direction. It is happening right now with the new blood.”

Chandamama Kathalu tells the stories of eight persons and how each story is connected. Manchu Lakshmi, Aamani, Naresh (senior), Krishnudu, Chaitanya Krishna, Richa Panai and Naga Sourya were the lead actors.