Unforgettable performances by child actors that earned them the National Award

At the 71st National Film Awards, Sreepath won the Best Child Artist award for his heart-touching performance in the Malayalam film ‘Malikappuram’. The film revolves around a young girl's pilgrimage to Sabarimala and the emotional and spiritual journey that follows. Sreepath’s portrayal brought innocence, faith, and courage to life, earning him widespread praise from both critics and audiences.

Suraj Pawar received the National Film Award for Best Child Artist in the non-feature film category for ‘Pistulya’, a poignant Marathi short film. The film sheds light on the struggles of Dalit children trying to access education. Suraj’s performance as a determined, marginalized boy was deeply moving and realistic, helping spotlight social issues through a child’s lens. His win reflected how powerful storytelling can be, even in short formats.

Bhavin Rabari won hearts nationwide with his stellar role in ‘Chhello Show’ (Last Film Show), a semi-autobiographical Gujarati film by Pan Nalin. This internationally acclaimed movie was India’s official entry to the Oscars. Bhavin’s portrayal of a cinema-loving boy in rural Gujarat who discovers the magic of movies was both soulful and memorable. His performance was deeply emotional, subtle, and marked by a natural curiosity that resonated with cinephiles across the globe.

These two talented kids shared the spotlight in the Gujarati children’s film ‘Gandhi & Co.’, which explores Mahatma Gandhi’s values through the eyes of modern children. Reyaan Shah and Hiranya Zinzuwadia were jointly honored for their performances at the 69th National Film Awards, thanks to their genuine chemistry, expressive performances, and relatable portrayal of childhood curiosity and moral awakening.

Shweta Basu Prasad rose to national fame with her remarkable dual role in Vishal Bhardwaj’s ‘Makdee’. At just 11 years old, she portrayed twin sisters—one brave and curious, the other timid and cautious—with stunning clarity and natural flair. Her performance stood out for its energy, emotional depth, and comic timing. This horror-comedy became a cult classic, and Shweta’s National Award win established her as one of the finest young talents in Indian cinema.