President Droupadi Murmu presented the 72nd National Film Awards on September 22, 2026, at a ceremony held in Kevadia, Gujarat. The occasion also marked the conferment of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024 upon veteran actor Anant Nag, recognising his lifetime contribution to Indian cinema.
The Awards and Recognition
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the highest honour in Indian cinema, went to Anant Nag this year. The President noted that his performances represent a blend of theatre and cinema traditions, marked by natural and authentic acting that sets an example for future generations.
Several films received recognition at the ceremony. Among them, “Article 370” was highlighted for its depiction of challenges to national unity. The non-feature film “Bhangaar” was cited for exploring themes of life and death. “Swatantrya Veer Savarkar” was described as an artistic account of Veer Savarkar’s life. The film “Bhakshak” was recognised for raising awareness about women’s safety issues. The Santhali language film “Angen” received national recognition, reflecting the awards’ commitment to cultural diversity.
Key Messages from the Ceremony
The President emphasised that Indian cinema reflects the dreams, traditions, struggles and future possibilities of the Indian people. She called for greater women’s participation in award juries, stating that including women’s perspectives creates more complete human understanding across any field.
The President also addressed the film industry’s work culture, urging respect and sensitivity for all team members, including workers, small-scale artists, assistants and those starting their careers. She highlighted the social responsibility of film celebrities, particularly given their influence over youth and children. The President cautioned against endorsing health-harmful products and said that true stardom means spreading light rather than darkness.
What This Means for You
If you work in or follow Indian cinema, these awards recognise films addressing serious national and social issues. The ceremony signals the government’s emphasis on cultural diversity through regional language films and responsible celebrity conduct in public health matters.