Hyderabad: The Bathukamma Young Film Makers Challenge concluded with a grand awards ceremony at Ravindra Bharathi on Monday, drawing young filmmakers from across Telangana, including remote villages.
Organised by the Telangana Film Development Corporation, the programme showcased short films and Bathukamma-themed video songs created by emerging talent. Roads and Buildings and Cinematography Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy and Tourism, Culture and Excise Minister Jupally Krishna Rao attended as chief guests and presented awards.
Addressing the gathering, Komatireddy Venkat Reddy said the Bathukamma Young Film Makers Challenge was a first-of-its-kind initiative. According to him, the government launched it under the leadership of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy to encourage youth and promote small films.
He noted that strong participation from interior regions reflected the creative strength of Telangana’s youth. Moreover, he said the initiative built a bridge between the government and people by carrying welfare themes and social narratives through cinema.
Bathukamma Young Film Makers Challenge highlights rural creativity
Referring to the entries, Komatireddy Venkat Reddy said films from remote villages impressed both the jury and organisers. As a result, the platform succeeded in bringing grassroots creativity to wider audiences. He congratulated all participants and extended special wishes to the winners. At the same time, he assured continued support from the Cinematography department.
Recalling notable films, the Minister referred to Balagam and Dandora. He praised their strong social messaging and emotional depth. Additionally, he said the government was developing Telangana as a film-friendly destination. In this context, he cited the Mannanur–Srisailam elevated corridor, being built at a cost of Rs 8,000 crore, which would also serve as a major shooting location.
Under the competition, organisers announced separate cash awards for the Short Film and Bathukamma Video Song categories. The first prize carried Rs 3 lakh, followed by Rs 2 lakh for second place and Rs 1 lakh for third. Meanwhile, organisers also awarded consolation prizes of Rs 20,000 each.
In the Short Film category, Sarassu Gnapakalu won the first prize. This was followed by Sontha Illu and Atma Gouravam. In addition, the jury presented special awards to Ela Batukalamma for Child Artist and S/o Chukka Ramulu, directed by Sandeep D. Jenda.
Turning to the Video Song category, Bathukamma secured the top honour. Meanwhile, Bathukamma Samburam and Aakasham Anchulu Daati won the second and third prizes respectively.
The programme witnessed wide participation from the film fraternity. Among those present were TFDC Chairman Dil Raju, TFDC Managing Director C. H. Priyanka, directors Harish Shankar, Tanikella Bharani and Dasarath, singer Rahul Sipligunj, artistes Sri Lakshmi, Mangli, cinematographer P. G. Vinda, music director Charan Arjun, along with a large number of young filmmakers and officials.