A Historic Moment for Telugu Cinema: Team Summer Holidays Honors National Award Winners 35 Chinna Katha Kaadu
In a touching gesture of solidarity and celebration, the makers of the upcoming film Summer Holidays hosted a special felicitation ceremony to honor the team behind 35 Chinna Katha Kaadu for their double triumph at the 72nd National Film Awards.
The critically acclaimed drama etched its name in history by winning Best Children's Film—a category Telugu cinema last conquered three decades ago with Bala Ramayanam—alongside Master Arun Dev Pothula bagging the National Award for Best Child Artist. Adding a poetic touch to the evening, Master Arun Dev is currently playing a lead role in Summer Holidays.
The event was brought together by producer Dheeraj Mogilineni under the Dheeraj Mogilineni Entertainment banner, alongside director Sreekar and actor Priyadarshi, turning into a warm evening of shared passion for meaningful storytelling.
"This Film Inspired Me to Produce Summer Holidays": Dheeraj Mogilineni
Speaking at the gathering, producer Dheeraj Mogilineni candidly shared how 35 Chinna Katha Kaadu deeply impacted his creative journey:
"Priyadarshi, Nivetha Thomas, and director Nanda Kishore believed in this story with complete conviction. In fact, watching this film on OTT inspired me to produce Summer Holidays. Even before the National Awards were announced, I wanted to honor Nanda Kishore simply for having the courage to make such a soul-stirring film. During auditions for our movie, Arun felt like the perfect choice instantly—today, he feels like family."
"A Modern Ramayanam": Priyadarshi Shares Emotional Journey
Lead actor Priyadarshi, who received wide applause for supporting the project from its inception, grew emotional as he recalled the eight-year journey behind the film:
*"Director Nanda Kishore fought a long battle to bring this story to life. Every single day on set, he would carry the book Adhunika Mahabharatam, and from that inspiration, he crafted what I call a modern-day Ramayanam. I don't know if I will ever get another role like this.
To Master Arun—congratulations on your National Award! I truly believe the day isn't far when your home will have more trophies than utensils."*
"Between Minus and Plus Lies Zero": Master Arun Dev's Inspiring Words
Young prodigy Master Arun Dev, who dedicated his award to his mother, left the crowd in awe with a mature reflection on his journey:
"Between the defeat called minus and the victory called plus, everyone must pass through the journey called zero. We crossed that zero and reached the National Awards with the support of our entire team. I dedicate this honor to my mother, my family, and my teachers who always believed in me."
Director Nanda Kishore expressed immense pride in restoring a long-lost honor to Telugu cinema, thanking producers Srujan and Siddharth for trusting his vision. He playfully added that he expects Summer Holidays to win a National Award in 2028 and looks forward to attending its felicitation as a guest!
