New Delhi: For the first time in its 72-year history, the National Film Awards ceremony is set to be held outside Delhi. The 72nd National Film Awards will be presented on September 22 at Ekta Nagar, formerly known as Kevadia, in Gujarat, with President Droupadi Murmu scheduled to confer the honours.
The move marks a significant departure from the long-standing tradition of holding the National Film Awards ceremony in the national capital. The first National Film Awards ceremony was held in 1954 at Delhi’s Vigyan Bhawan, which has hosted the ceremony on several occasions over the decades.
The 72nd edition will therefore be the first awards presentation ceremony to be held outside Delhi.
How the National Film Awards are decided
Every year, a national jury appointed by the Government of India selects winners from across the country’s diverse film industries. The awards are traditionally presented by the President of India, making the ceremony one of the most prestigious events in Indian cinema.
From 1974 to 2022, the National Film Awards ceremony was administered by the Directorate of Film Festivals. Since 2022, the responsibility has shifted to the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC).
The awards are broadly divided into two major sections — Feature Films and Non-Feature Films — recognising excellence in feature films as well as documentaries, short films and other forms of non-fiction filmmaking.
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Article 370, Bramayugam among 72nd edition winners
While the ceremony is moving to Gujarat, the winners of the 72nd National Film Awards were announced in New Delhi in July. The awards recognise films certified by the Central Board of Film Certification during 2024.
Article 370 emerged as the Best Feature Film, while Yami Gautam won the Best Actress award for her performance in the film.
The Best Actor Award was shared by Malayalam superstar Mammootty for Bramayugam and Kartik Aaryan for his performance in Chandu Champion.
Several other major films also featured among the winners. Randeep Hooda was named Best Debut Director for Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, while Kalki 2898 AD won the award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment.
Captain Miller, directed by Arun Matheswaran and starring Dhanush, was recognised as the Best Feature Film Promoting National Social and Environmental Values.
Edited by Maryam Hassan