Mumbai, Aug 16: Acclaimed actor Manoj Bajpayee expressed his pride that his film Gulmohar received three honors at the 70th National Film Awards, including Best Film, Best Screenplay, and a Special Mention for the actor himself. "I am extremely happy for my director and very proud that Gulmohar is recognized with three awards! It holds a very special place in my heart," Manoj said.
Released in March 2023, Gulmohar stars Sharmila Tagore and centers on a multi-generational family preparing to leave their 34-year-old home. The film marked Tagore’s return to the screen after 13 years, her last appearance being in Break Ke Baad with Imran Khan and Deepika Padukone.
Manoj Bajpayee, who has won numerous awards including three National Film Awards and two Asia Pacific Screen Awards, was honored with the Padma Shri in 2019 for his contributions to art. He previously received the Special Jury National Award in 2003 for Pinjar and was recognized at the Asia Pacific Screen Awards in 2016 for Aligarh. His most recent film is the action thriller Bhaiyaa Ji, directed by Apoorv Singh Karki.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting announced the winners in New Delhi. The awards ceremony, including the presentation of the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, will be held in October 2024, with President Droupadi Murmu presiding over the event.
The awards were revealed by the Feature Film Jury Chairperson Rahul Rawail, Non-Feature Film Jury Chairperson Nila Madhab Panda, and Best Writing on Cinema Jury Chairperson Gangadhar Mudalair. Rishabh Shetty was named Best Actor for his role in the Kannada film Kantara, while Nithya Menen and Manasi Parekh shared the Best Actress award for Thiruchitrambalam and Kutch Express, respectively.
