The 2026 Critics Choice Awards ceremony turned into a grand celebration for the Hindi film industry, with the poignant drama One Battle After Another emerging as the undisputed champion of the night. The film, which has captivated audiences and critics alike with its powerful narrative, secured an impressive tally of seven awards, including the top honors.
A Clean Sweep for the Poignant Drama
The awards were announced in a virtual ceremony on Monday, March 2, 2026, recognizing excellence in Hindi cinema released the previous year. One Battle After Another dominated the proceedings, winning in major categories. It was crowned Best Film, a testament to its overall impact and cinematic achievement.
The film's visionary director was rightfully acknowledged, winning the Best Director award for his masterful storytelling. The lead actor's compelling performance earned him the Best Actor trophy, while the film's talented leading lady was honored as Best Actress. This double win in the acting categories highlighted the film's strength in character portrayal.
The recognition did not stop there. The film also earned awards for its brilliant writing, winning Best Screenplay. The soulful music that underscored the film's emotional journey was awarded Best Music. Finally, the technical prowess behind the scenes was acknowledged with the award for Best Cinematography.
Other Notable Winners of the Evening
While One Battle After Another was the star, other films and artists also received critical acclaim. The award for Best Supporting Actor went to a performer from the film Rickshawala, recognizing a standout secondary role. Similarly, the Best Supporting Actress award was bagged by an artist from the movie Chandni Chowk to China, showcasing the depth of talent across projects.
The category of Best Child Artist was won by a young talent from the film Chhoti Si Asha, pointing towards a promising future for the industry. In the music categories, the award for Best Lyrics was claimed by the songwriter of the film Ishq Mohabbat Pyaar, celebrating the art of poetic expression in songs.
Celebrating Excellence in Hindi Cinema
The Critics Choice Awards, organized by the Film Critics Guild, are highly regarded for their focus on artistic merit and critical analysis, distinct from popular vote-based ceremonies. The 2026 winners list reflects a strong appreciation for films that combine narrative depth with technical finesse.
The sweeping victory of One Battle After Another underscores the enduring power of well-crafted dramas that resonate on a human level. Its success across directing, acting, writing, and technical categories indicates a cohesive and excellently executed vision. The awards for supporting roles and other films also highlight the diverse and rich landscape of contemporary Hindi cinema, where compelling stories are being told from various perspectives.
This year's ceremony has undoubtedly set a high benchmark, with One Battle After Another now firmly etched in the annals of award-winning Indian cinema. The wins are expected to boost the film's visibility further and reaffirm the importance of critical recognition in celebrating cinematic art.
