Hyderabad, Jan 20: The Telangana Film Development Corporation (TFDC) has officially issued a notification inviting entries for the prestigious Telangana Gaddar Film Awards (TGFA) 2025. This announcement, made under G.O. Rt. No. 77 issued by the General Administration Department on January 19, 2026, marks the second year of the state’s revived film awards.
Named in honor of the legendary revolutionary balladeer and folk singer Gaddar, these awards were established by the Chief Minister Revanth Reddy-led government to celebrate excellence in cinema and fill the decade-long void left by the discontinuation of the Nandi Awards.
The government has outlined a strict timeline for the 2025 awards cycle, focusing on films certified between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2025. Entry forms and the detailed rulebook can be collected from the TFDC office starting tomorrow, January 21, 2026. Forms are available upon payment of Rs. 5,900 (inclusive of 18% GST), payable via Demand Draft or UPI. Last date for sale of application is January 31, 2026 (up to 3:00 PM). Completed applications must be submitted by February 3, 2026 (up to 3:00 PM) at the TFDC office in Hyderabad.
Award Categories
The 2025 edition continues the government’s push for diversity and social relevance in cinema. Entries are invited for:
- Feature Films: Including Telugu and, for the second year, a dedicated category for Urdu language films.
- Special Interest Films: Categories for National Integration, Environment, Heritage & History, and Social Messages.
- Technical & Debut Awards: Recognition for Debut Feature Films, Animation, Special Effects, and individual awards for artists and technicians.
- Non-Feature Content: Documentaries, Short Films, and Children’s films.
- Literature: Awards for books and critical articles written about Telugu cinema.
A Legacy Revived
The Gaddar Awards were launched in 2025 to replace the erstwhile Nandi Awards, which had not been presented since the formation of Telangana in 2014. The inaugural ceremony held last June saw major stars like Allu Arjun and Nag Ashwin take home top honors.
By institutionalizing these awards, the state government aims to provide a platform for both mainstream commercial cinema and independent, socially conscious storytelling—values that the late Gaddar championed throughout his life.
