Tulu Film 'Imbu' Wins National Award, Explores Digital Age Struggles
Tulu cinema has achieved another milestone with the feature film Imbu being named the Best Tulu Movie at the 72nd National Film Awards, announced on July 18, 2026, for the year 2024. The award marks the eighth National Award for Tulu cinema, highlighting the region's growing contribution to Indian film.
Directed by Shivadhwaj Shetty and produced by Prashanth Rai of Pichchar Studio, the film's story, screenplay, and dialogue were also written by Mr. Shetty. Imbu is set in a vibrant rural community and follows Balanna, a devout man who struggles with illiteracy and financial hardships but finds joy in helping others, especially his academically gifted daughter. His life takes a turn when he receives a mobile phone, opening up 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. The film explores themes of trust, resilience, and the clash between tradition and technology.
Mr. Shetty, who has made over 40 films, said, 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.
Producer Prashanth Rai expressed his delight, stating, 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 director Shetty and senior actor Naveen D. Padil, who played Balanna. I have always felt that 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.
Senior art director Thamma Lakshmana, who also acted in the film, noted that this is the eighth National Award for Tulu cinema. The first such recognition came in 1994 when Bangar Patler won two Rajata Kamala awards at the 41st National Film Festival. Tulu cinema completed 55 years on February 19, 2026.
The award has motivated Mr. Shetty to continue making meaningful films. Imbu was the film which was in my mind,
he said. The film's narrative, set in the Tulu coastal region, captures the tension between cultural heritage and modernisation, using Yakshagana performances and oracle ceremonies to celebrate tradition while questioning how society adapts to rapid change.
