Sukruthi Veni Bandreddy Wins National Best Child Actress Award for ‘Gandhi Tatha Chettu’
In a proud moment for the Telugu film industry, child actress Sukruthi Veni Bandreddy has bagged the prestigious National Award for Best Child Artist at the 71st National Film Awards for her performance in the emotionally stirring film Gandhi Tatha Chettu. The awards, announced by the Government of India on August 1, saw several Telugu films receiving national acclaim, and Sukruthi’s recognition added a golden feather to the cap of Tollywood’s growing legacy in children-centric storytelling.
Produced by Tabitha Sukumar under the joint banners of Sukumar Writings, Mythri Movie Makers, and Gopi Talkies, the film was directed by Padmavati Malladi, a filmmaker known for her sensitive storytelling and visual poetry. With Gandhi Tatha Chettu, she brings to life a story that is simple in form but profound in emotion and message.
A Soulful Tale That Touched the Nation
Gandhi Tatha Chettu weaves a beautiful and emotionally resonant narrative centered around the relationship between a young girl and her grandfather. The story explores themes of love, environmental awareness, generational bonding, and the importance of tradition and memory through a symbolic representation — a tree that becomes the heart of the plot.
The film’s emotional core revolves around the little girl’s mission to save an old tree planted by her beloved grandfather. What does the tree symbolize for the family? What memories does it hold? And how far will she go to protect it? These questions form the essence of the film, making it a moving journey of innocence, courage, and conviction.
Sukruthi’s Performance Wins Hearts and Honors
Sukruthi Veni Bandreddy’s portrayal of the young girl has been unanimously applauded. With expressive eyes, an emotionally rich performance, and impressive screen presence, Sukruthi conveyed the character’s innocence, emotional depth, and strength with incredible maturity — something rare for someone so young and new to the screen. That this was her debut performance makes her win even more remarkable.
National recognition for a first-time performance is no ordinary feat. It requires a blend of raw talent, natural emoting, and directorial guidance — all of which came together perfectly in this film. Sukruthi’s achievement is being hailed as a shining example of how the younger generation is bringing fresh energy and credibility to Indian cinema.
A Proud Moment for the Telugu Industry
The Telugu film fraternity is celebrating Sukruthi Veni Bandreddy’s National Award as a proud and inspiring milestone. Industry veterans, filmmakers, and audiences alike are praising her natural talent and the film’s meaningful message. Her win also underlines the diversity of stories being told in Telugu cinema — stories rooted in culture, values, and social themes.
The director, Padmavati Malladi, has also been lauded for her sensitivity and nuance in directing a child artist. The production houses behind the film — especially Sukumar Writings and Mythri Movie Makers — are being appreciated for backing a film that isn’t a commercial juggernaut, but a heartfelt narrative that speaks volumes about life, relationships, and nature.
A Star in the Making
Sukruthi Veni Bandreddy, through this film and award, has announced her arrival in the Indian film industry with grace and promise. She is already being seen as a future star — someone who has the potential to grow into a versatile and acclaimed performer.
As the celebrations continue, Gandhi Tatha Chettu is also finding more viewers and admirers, thanks to the spotlight brought on by this National Award. It stands as a reminder that cinema has the power to heal, inspire, and educate — and that sometimes, it’s the smallest voices that make the loudest impact.
Read Also: Kannappa Review: A Flawed Yet Spiritually Stirring Tale of Devotion