Senior actor Naveen D. Padil in Tulu cinema Imbu, which bagged a National Award as the Best Tulu film at the 72nd National Film Awards. Photo: Special Arrangement
Tulu cinema has another feather in its cap with the feature film Imbu adjudged the Best Tulu movie at the 72nd National Film Awards, announced on Saturday (July 18, 2026) for 2024.Directed by Shivadhwaj Shetty and produced by Prashanth Rai of Pichchar Studio, its story, screenplay and dialogue are also by Mr. Shetty.According to Thamma Lakshmana, a senior art director who has also acted in Imbu, this is the eighth national award bagged by Tulu cinema.Mr. Shetty’s debut, Gaggara, in Tulu, had also bagged the National Award in 2008.Imbu storySet in a vibrant rural community, Imbu follows Balanna, a devout man dedicated to his spiritual duties despite personal hardships like illiteracy and financial struggles. He finds joy in the uplift of others, especially his academically gifted daughter. His life changes when he receives a mobile phone, opening a world of Yakshagana performances and digital possibilities.However, his innocence leads him into a scam, costing him his savings and his revered status in the village. As his world unravels, even his spiritual duties falter, shaking the community’s faith. A poignant tale of trust, resilience, and the clash between tradition and technology, the film explores Balanna’s struggle to rebuild and rediscover faith amid loss, Mr. Rai said.Referring to Imbu Mr. Shetty added, “This film explores trust, resilience, and the clash between tradition and modernity. Balanna’s journey highlights the fragility of trust in the digital age, where technology connects and deceives in equal measure. His struggle serves as a cautionary tale about digital literacy, especially for those new to it.”With over 40 films to his credit, Mr. Shetty further added, “Set in the Tulu coastal region, Imbu captures the tension between cultural heritage and modernisation. Through Yakshagana performances and oracle ceremonies, it celebrates tradition while questioning how we adapt to a rapidly changing world.Balanna’s experience is not just his own—it mirrors the challenges many face today. An elated Mr. Rai told The Hindu, “Coming from Tulunadu, starting my journey as a film producer in Tulu and winning the prestigious National Film Award feels like a dream. I am lucky to have worked with great talents like the Director Mr. Shetty and senior actor Naveen D. Padil who acted as Balanna.”Mr. Rai further added, “I have always felt that Mr. Padil had much more than comedy to offer. He is a bundle of talent. We have been able to tap into his potential as a versatile actor in Imbu. I am happy that the country has recognised this amazing talent from Tulu Nadu. I would be happy if the Tulu people started encouraging more such content-oriented films in Tulu.”Expressing his joy, the Director told The Hindu that the award has prompted him to make more good films. “Imbu was the film which was in my mind,” he said.Tulu cinema, which completed 55 years on February 19, 2026, drew national attention when Bangar Patler, produced and directed by Richard Castelino of Mangaluru, won two national awards (Rajata Kamala) for the first time as ‘Best Feature Film in Tulu’ at the 41st National Film Festival in 1994. Mr. Castelino won the award for Best Director and Best Producer. It was released on April 23, 1993, as the 25th Tulu film. Published - July 19, 2026 05:22 pm IST
