The Kannada movie “Latchi,” produced and directed by Krishna Gowda under the banner Sapthagiri Creation, has won the prestigious “Best First Film” award in the Indian Language Films category at the 30th Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF).
The festival, held in Kolkata, West Bengal, from December 4 to 11, showcased over 300 films from India and abroad across various categories. Competing against more than 80 films from different Indian languages, “Latchi” emerged as the winner in its category. This marks the first time in nearly 15 years that a Kannada film has received the “Best First Film” award at KIFF, bringing pride to the Kannada film industry.
“Latchi” is based on a novel by former minister and senior writer Dr. B. T. Lalitha Naik. The film features an ensemble cast, including Greeshma Sridhar, Tejaswini Gowda, Narayana Swamy, Kaveri Sridhar, Mahadeva Hadapada, and Krishna Gowda himself. It tells the poignant story of a mother’s struggle to save a girl child.
The cinematography for the film is handled by Arjun Raja, with editing by Nagesh N. Krishna Gowda, known for his contributions as an actor, producer, and director in the Kannada film industry, has brought this compelling narrative to the screen.
The recognition of “Latchi” at KIFF is a significant achievement, showcasing the strength and potential of Kannada cinema on a national platform.
