Hyderabad, Aug. 1 -- Telangana Cinematography Minister Komati Reddy Venkat Reddy expressed happiness over the Telugu film industry securing seven awards at the 71st National Film Awards, calling it a proud moment for the state and a reflection of the industry's growing creative strength.

In a statement here on Friday, the Minister congratulated Balakrishna's Bhagavant Kesari for being named the Best Telugu Film and lauded lyricist Kasarla Shyam for winning the National Award for his soulful songs in Balagam, which captured the essence of rural Telangana.

He also noted the achievements of films Baby and Hanuman, which won two awards each, and praised Sukriti Veni for being selected as the Best Child Actress for Gandhi Thatha Chettu, saying...