Dilip Guha ★ Sasraya News Desk, 23rd September,2026 New Delhi : The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, presented the 72nd National Film Awards at a ceremony held at Ekta Nagar, Kevadia, Gujarat, on September 22, 2026. She also conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024 on veteran actor Shri Anant Nag in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema.
Congratulating the award winners, the President lauded their exceptional talent and hard work, which had earned them national recognition. Expressing happiness over Anant Nag receiving the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, she described his acting as a synthesis of the finest elements of theatre and cinema. She noted that he was renowned for his natural, restrained and authentic performances and served as an ideal example for future generations of artists.
The President observed that India’s image was reflected in films produced across its diverse languages and regions. Indian cinema, she said, embodied the dreams, traditions and struggles of its people, while also portraying possibilities for the future.
Referring to the venue, near the Statue of Unity and the Wall of Unity, she said the ceremony appeared to evoke the presence of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the architect of India’s unity, as though he were blessing a celebration of the country’s cultural unity.
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Appreciating the award-winning films, the President highlighted their diverse themes. She said Article 370 presented a vivid account of challenges concerning the country’s unity and their solutions, while the non-feature film Bhangaar explored unseen dimensions of life and death, meaning and meaninglessness. She described Swatantrya Veer Savarkar as an artistic tribute to the extraordinary life of Veer Savarkar and noted that Bhakshak raised awareness about the serious issue of women’s safety. She also said that national recognition for the Santhali film Angen had encouraged outstanding cinema while promoting cultural diversity and social inclusion.
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The President commended the jury members for selecting films addressing significant social and national issues. She called for women’s participation in every regional jury, emphasising that incorporating women’s perspectives was essential to developing a holistic understanding of society.
Highlighting the importance of dignity and sensitivity in the film industry, she said respect for every member of a production team should be integral to its work culture. She urged leaders in the creative economy to ensure workers, small-scale artists, assistants, and struggling professionals receive due respect and social security.
The President also underlined the influence of popular film artists, particularly on children and young people. Noting that millions emulate successful actors who advocate disciplined lifestyles, she urged celebrities not to endorse products harmful to health. “A true star is one who spreads light, not darkness,” she said.
Photo Courtesy Rashtrapati Bhawan
