In a landmark departure from tradition, the 72nd National Film Awards will be held at the Statue of Unity in Gujarat on September 22. President Droupadi Murmu will preside over the ceremony to honor 92 cinematic achievers.

  • The 72nd National Film Awards will break a 70-year tradition by moving from Delhi to Gujarat.
  • President Droupadi Murmu will present awards to 92 winners at the Statue of Unity complex.
  • A specialized German aluminum structural dome is being erected for the high-profile event.

Indian cinema is bracing for a historic shift. For the first time in over seven decades, the prestigious National Film Awards will step outside the political corridors of Delhi to find a new home against the majestic backdrop of the Statue of Unity (SoU) in Gujarat. Scheduled for September 22, this 72nd edition promises to redefine the grandeur of Indian cinematic honors.

The Narmada district administration is currently engaged in massive preparations at Ekta Nagar. To accommodate the President of India, top film personalities, and nearly 1,000 distinguished guests, a temporary, state-of-the-art venue is being constructed. According to official reports, a German aluminum structural dome will be erected in the Bus Bay area to provide a world-class setting for the ceremony, which is expected to last approximately 75 minutes.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this strategic relocation signifies a broader shift in India's cultural and tourism infrastructure. By hosting a premier national event at the Statue of Unity, the government is actively transforming the site from a mere monument into a global hub for significant national and international gatherings. This aligns with the vision of elevating domestic landmarks to compete with international event destinations.

The convergence of the President's dignity, cinema's glamour, and the Statue's global scale creates an unprecedented cultural moment for India.

The 72nd awards recognize excellence in films released in 2024. Major highlights include 'Article 370' winning Best Feature Film, and Yami Gautam securing the Best Actress award. In the male categories, Mammootty (for 'Bramayugam') and Kartik Aaryan (for 'Chandu Champion') shared the Best Actor honors, marking a significant moment for both regional and mainstream Hindi cinema.

Beyond the glitz, the logistical undertaking is massive. Narmada Collector Ganga Singh has been spearheading meetings to ensure stringent security protocols and seamless movement for VVIPs. Given the presence of the President, the event requires meticulous coordination between the Gujarat state government and district authorities to maintain the highest standards of decorum and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Where will the 72nd National Film Awards take place?
Answer: The ceremony will be held at the Statue of Unity complex in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat.

Question 2: Who are the major winners announced this year?
Answer: Key winners include Yami Gautam (Best Actress), Mammootty and Kartik Aaryan (Best Actor), and the film 'Article 370' (Best Feature Film).

Did You Know?: The Statue of Unity is the tallest statue in the world, standing as a tribute to India's first Deputy Prime Minister.