Filmmaker Rahul Dholakia has criticized the government's decision to move the National Film Awards ceremony from Delhi to Kevadia, Gujarat. He argues that cinematic hubs like Maharashtra or South Indian states should have been prioritized.
- The National Film Awards ceremony is moving out of Delhi for the first time in 72 years.
- The new venue for the ceremony is Kevadia (Ekta Nagar) in Gujarat.
- Director Rahul Dholakia questioned the choice of Gujarat over established cinematic hubs.
- President Droupadi Murmu will present the 72nd National Film Awards on September 22.
In a historic shift for the Indian film industry, the National Film Awards ceremony is set to move out of the national capital. Following a government announcement, the prestigious ceremony will now be held in Kevadia, Gujarat, breaking a decades-long tradition of hosting the event in Delhi.
This decision has met with significant pushback from the filmmaking community. Renowned director and National Award winner Rahul Dholakia expressed his skepticism regarding the selection of Gujarat as the new venue. Taking to his 'X' handle, Dholakia questioned why a state with a smaller cinematic footprint was chosen over regions that have historically shaped Indian cinema.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that this relocation transcends mere logistics; it touches upon the delicate balance of regional representation in India's cultural landscape. While Delhi's Vigyan Bhawan has been the traditional home since 1954, moving the awards to Kevadia—home to the Statue of Unity—suggests a strategic alignment of national honors with major infrastructure and tourism landmarks. However, bypassing established film centers like Mumbai, Chennai, or Hyderabad risks alienating the very heart of the industry.
When you are breaking the tradition of presenting the award in another city, why not give that honour to a state that has contributed significantly to cinema?
Dholakia, whose film Parzania won him a National Award, pointed out that if the tradition of hosting in Delhi is to be broken, the honor should go to states like Maharashtra, Kerala, or Tamil Nadu, which serve as the lifeblood of Indian cinematic production.
Historical Background
Since their inception in 1954, the National Film Awards have been synonymous with Delhi. The Vigyan Bhawan has served as the primary stage for honoring excellence in Indian film for over seven decades. The move to Kevadia, now officially known as Ekta Nagar, marks a new era for the awards, placing them in the shadow of the 597-foot Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel statue.
72nd National Film Awards: Key Winners
The upcoming ceremony on September 22 will see several major stars honored. Yami Gautam has been named Best Actress, and Aditya Suhas Jambhale’s Article 370 secured the Best Feature Film title. In a notable shared win, Mammootty and Kartik Aaryan will receive the Best Actor award for their respective roles in Bramayugam and Chandu Champion.
| Award Category | Winner / Film |
|---|---|
| Best Feature Film | Article 370 |
| Best Actress | Yami Gautam |
| Best Actor | Mammootty & Kartik Aaryan |
| Best Popular Film | Kalki 2898 AD |
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: Why is the National Film Awards ceremony being moved?
Answer: The government has decided to relocate the ceremony from Delhi to Kevadia, Gujarat, marking the first such move in 72 years.
Question 2: Which states did Rahul Dholakia suggest as better alternatives?
Answer: He suggested Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, or Hyderabad, citing their massive contributions to Indian cinema.
