The 72nd National Film Awards will be held in Kevadia, Gujarat, breaking tradition of Delhi venues. Amid political backlash, veteran actor Paresh Rawal defended the decision, stating Gujarat is an integral part of India and every state deserves such events. His remarks have sparked a fresh debate on cultural decentralisation.

  • The National Film Awards 2026 will take place in Gujarat instead of Delhi.
  • Veteran actor Paresh Rawal defended the move, dismissing critics with a blunt "Is Gujarat in Pakistan?" remark.
  • Political commentators labelled the shift as a political stunt, while many see it as a step toward cultural inclusivity.

Background

The 72nd edition of the National Film Awards is scheduled for September 22 in Kevadia, Gujarat, home to the world‑tallest Statue of Unity. Since its inception in 1954 at Delhi’s Vigyan Bhawan, the ceremony has rarely left the capital; the only previous out‑of‑Delhi edition was the 17th awards in Chennai, 1971.

Paresh Rawal’s Statement

During a media interaction, Rawal said, "Is Gujarat in Bangladesh? Pakistan? Gujarat is very much a part of our country. It should definitely be held there." He added, "Politics is about raising questions, but the Republic Day parade happens in Delhi – every function should happen in every state."

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Key Points of Contention

Critics argue that moving the ceremony undermines Delhi’s status as the national cultural hub, while supporters claim it reflects a policy of rotating major events across states, boosting local economies and reinforcing national unity.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that shifting a prestigious national event to Gujarat not only decentralizes cultural celebrations but also aligns with the government's broader "Har Rajya Mein Mahaan Karyakram" initiative, giving regional economies a boost and redefining national unity.

"Hosting national awards in regional venues is a strategic move to showcase India's cultural diversity," says film historian Dr. Ravi Sharma.
Did You Know?: The only time the National Film Awards were held outside the capital before 2026 was in 1971, when the 17th edition took place in Chennai.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Will the venue change affect the prestige of the awards?

A: No. The selection criteria and jury remain unchanged; only the location is different.

Q2: What facilities are being prepared in Kevadia for the ceremony?

A: A state‑of‑the‑art event hall, advanced sound systems, and extensive security arrangements have been set up within the Statue of Unity complex.