Anant V Joshi celebrates double triumph as ‘Kathal’ and ‘12th Fail’ sweep big at National Awards 2025

Both films have grounded narratives and strong social relevance, despite their vastly different genres and tones.

It’s a defining moment in Anant V Joshi’s career as two of his most noteworthy films — Kathal and 12th Fail — receive top honours at the 71st National Film Awards.

Kathal clinched the award for Best Hindi Film, while 12th Fail was bestowed with the coveted title of Best Feature Film, cementing Joshi’s position as a performer deeply committed to impactful storytelling.

Both films have grounded narratives and strong social relevance, despite their vastly different genres and tones.

Whether playing a determined young man from Chambal in 12th Fail or a quirky small-town havaldar in Kathal, Anant's ability to switch between roles with ease says a lot about his versatility and commitment. Because of their honesty and profundity, his performances have struck a chord with both critics and audiences.

Responding to the national honour, Anant V Joshi expressed heartfelt gratitude saying, "It’s a matter of immense pride to be a part of Kathal and 12th Fail — and to see both being honoured as the Best Films at the National Awards. 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."

"I’ve received immense love for the characters I portrayed in these films, and being recognised with such a prestigious award is truly motivating. I hope to continue choosing stories that resonate with a larger consciousness while entertaining audiences. I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of such inspiring cinematic worlds that have been celebrated today," he added.

Also read: IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma congratulates team 12th Fail for double win at the National Film Awards 2025

With back-to-back critical acclaim and now National Awards under his belt, Anant V Joshi is carving a strong niche for himself as a thoughtful and dynamic performer. His choices reflect a commitment to content-driven cinema, and his rising stature signals the arrival of an actor who not only impresses but also leaves a lasting impact.