Tulu film ’Imbu’ wins Best Tulu Film at 72nd National Film Awards

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, July 20, 2026: In a major achievement for Coastalwood, the Tulu film ’Imbu’ has won the Best Tulu Film award at the 72nd National Film Awards.

Produced by Prashanth Rai and directed by Shivadhwaj Shetty, the critically acclaimed film explores the impact of modern technology on traditional rural life. Before earning this national honour, Imbu was officially selected for the Indian Panorama section at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.

Veteran actor Naveen D. Padil plays the lead role of Balanna, an illiterate village priest whose life takes a tragic turn after he buys a mobile phone and becomes the victim of a cyber fraud. A respected spiritual figure in his village, Balanna performs his duties with devotion despite financial hardships.

His first experiences with digital technology, including watching Yakshagana performances on his phone, eventually lead him into the hands of online scammers. After unknowingly sharing sensitive information, he loses his life savings and the respect he once enjoyed in the community. The film follows his emotional journey to rebuild his life, regain the trust of his village, and rediscover hope, while highlighting the growing importance of digital literacy.

The film also features Chandrakalaa Udupi, Harish Vasu Shetty (Mumbai), Kasaragod Chinna, Thamma Lakshmana, Prashamsa Shetty, Pushparaj Bolar, and Udaya Alva Iddya Surathkal in key roles.

The story, screenplay, dialogues, and direction are by Shivadhwaj Shetty, while Prashanth Rai has produced the film. The technical team includes cinematographer Suresh Bhyrasandra, editor Ganesh Nirchal, art director Santhosh Poojary Venur, background score composer Shinoy V. Joseph, production manager Shankaranarayana Sullia, and re-recording engineer RJ Rahul.