In a groundbreaking moment for Malayalam cinema, Dulquer Salmaan has made history by becoming the first Malayalam actor to win a Telangana State Film Award. Salmaan received the prestigious Special Jury Award for Best Actor for his powerful performance in the Telugu-language movie Lucky Baskhar.
‘Lucky Baskhar’ Triumphs at the Telangana State (Gaddar) Film Awards
The Telangana State Film Awards—also known as the Gaddar Awards—returned after a 14-year hiatus, recognizing excellence in Telugu cinema. Among the standout 2024 releases, Lucky Baskhar emerged as one of the biggest winners, clinching four major accolades.
Along with Dulquer’s acting honor, the film was named the Third Best Film. Editor Navin Nooli secured the award for Best Editing, while Venky Atluri, who helmed the project, was awarded Best Screenplay Writer. These wins mark a significant achievement for the film, which has been celebrated for its storytelling, direction, and technical excellence.
A Pan-Indian Blockbuster with Global Impact
Lucky Baskhar was released across five languages—Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi—making it a pan-Indian movie phenomenon. The film received widespread acclaim both in cinemas and on digital platforms, resonating with audiences across India and the international diaspora. In Kerala and the Gulf, the film’s theatrical distribution was managed by Wayfarer Films, Dulquer’s own production house.
Salmaan’s intense and emotionally layered portrayal of Baskhar captivated audiences and critics alike, further solidifying his position as a leading actor in Indian cinema. The role marked a high point in his career, showcasing his range and depth as a performer.
A Gripping Tale of Finance and Deception
Set during the infamous 1992 Bombay Stock Exchange scam, Lucky Baskhar is a period crime drama that delves into the darker corners of the financial world. The film follows Baskhar, portrayed by Salmaan, as he becomes entangled in a web of corruption, ambition, and deceit. Actress Meenakshi Chaudhary stars opposite Salmaan in the female lead role.
According to ETimes’ movie reviews, the film earned a solid 3.5 stars out of 5, praised for its storytelling and production design. “Lucky Baskhar emerges as a captivating period crime thriller,” the review states, “blending a nostalgic backdrop with a tale of human ambition and resilience. Venky Atluri’s direction, coupled with Dulquer Salmaan’s nuanced performance and a strong supporting cast, makes for an engaging cinematic experience.”
As the Indian film industry continues to evolve, Lucky Baskhar stands as a testament to the power of cross-language storytelling and exceptional performance—anchored by a historic win that cements Dulquer Salmaan’s legacy in South Indian cinema.
