Indian cinema is set to witness a historic shift in tradition as the prestigious National Film Awards ceremony moves out of New Delhi for the very first time in its 72-year history. For over seven decades, the national capital and its familiar venue Vigyan Bhavan have served as the traditional home for celebrating the finest works and biggest icons of the Indian film industry. Breaking away from this long-standing convention, the upcoming ceremony is heading to a completely new destination. This year, the grand event will take place in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, a location previously known as Kevadiya and globally famous for housing the magnificent Statue of Unity. Inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018, this monumental landmark is dedicated to the country's first Home Minister, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
President Murmu to Present Awards in Ekta Nagar on September 22
According to official details shared by authorities, the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony is scheduled to be held on September 22 in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat. President Droupadi Murmu will travel to the state later this month to personally confer these top honors upon the luminaries of the film fraternity. In the 72-year legacy of the National Film Awards, this marks an unprecedented moment as the event steps outside the geographical boundaries of the national capital. Preparations are already underway in Gujarat to host the creme de la creme of Indian cinema at this unique venue situated against the backdrop of the massive Sardar Patel memorial.
A 72-Year Legacy Originating in 1954
Looking back at the origins of the event, the National Film Awards were first established and distributed in the year 1954. Ever since, Delhi has remained the undisputed hub for the annual celebration, with Vigyan Bhavan becoming synonymous with the distribution of these national honors. Shifting the venue to Gujarat after 72 years marks a monumental departure from history, bringing the prestigious distribution ceremony directly in front of the Statue of Unity. This move aims to blend India's rich cinematic excellence with one of its most modern architectural achievements.
Winners Announced Earlier in July
The names of the winners for the 72nd National Film Awards were officially announced earlier in July, setting off celebrations across the entertainment industry. The critically acclaimed feature 'Article 370' bagged the award for Best Feature Film for the year 2024, while Yami Gautam earned the Best Actress honor for her stellar performance in the same movie. In the actor categories, Kartik Aryan was named Best Actor for 'Chandu Champion', Mammootty earned the same recognition for 'Bramayugam', and Randeep Hooda was selected for the Best Debut Director award for 'Swatantrya Veer Savarkar'.
Celebrations Among Winners Captured Online
The announcement brought immense joy to the winners, many of whom immediately shared their happiness with peers and fans. Following the announcement, Mammootty celebrated the achievement alongside Dhanush on the set of 'OM', with memorable pictures from the gathering taking over social media feeds. Similarly, Kartik Aaryan expressed uncontainable joy upon winning his very first National Film Award and celebrated the historic milestone surrounded by his family members.
