KEVADIA, Sept 22: President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday said cinema has played an important role in strengthening India’s cultural unity by bringing together stories, traditions and experiences from different regions and languages.
Addressing the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony at Ekta Nagar in Gujarat, President Murmu congratulated the award winners and the wider film fraternity for their contribution to Indian cinema. She said films help audiences connect with diverse cultures and understand different aspects of human life.
The President also highlighted the contribution of actors, filmmakers, technicians and other professionals who collectively bring cinematic stories to audiences. She described the National Film Awards as an important occasion to recognise the creative work and achievements of the country’s film industry.
The ceremony honoured films across several languages, genres and categories. ‘Article 370’ won Best Feature Film, while Mammootty and Kartik Aaryan jointly received the Best Actor in a Leading Role award for ‘Bramayugam’ and ‘Chandu Champion’, respectively.
Yami Gautam was named Best Actress for ‘Article 370’, while Rajkumar Periasamy received the Best Director award for ‘Amaran’. ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ was recognised as the Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment.
Other major honours included Best Non-Feature Film for ‘Bhangaar’ and Best Documentary for ‘Ram-Nami’. Several popular productions, including ‘Pushpa: The Rule Part-02’, ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’, ‘Stree 2’ and ‘Amaran’, also received awards in different categories.
The President referred to cinema’s engagement with subjects of national and social importance, noting that films can provide audiences with an opportunity to reflect on significant issues while presenting diverse perspectives.
This year’s ceremony was held at Ekta Nagar, marking a departure from the traditional venue in New Delhi. The move reflects an effort to take the celebration of Indian cinema to different parts of the country.
Instituted in 1954, the National Film Awards recognise excellence in feature films, non-feature films and writing on cinema. The awards also showcase the linguistic and cultural diversity of India’s film industry.
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024 was presented to veteran actor Anant Nag for his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema.
Among other notable winners, Randeep Hooda received the Best Debut Film of a Director award for ‘Swatantrya Veer Savarkar’, Sanjay Mishra won Best Actor in a Supporting Role for ‘Bhakshak’, and Sachana Namidass and Ropashree Varkady shared recognition in the Best Actress in a Supporting Role category.
The awards also recognised achievements in cinematography, screenplay, editing, production design, music, choreography, sound, animation, documentary filmmaking and writing on cinema.