PRESIDENT OF INDIA PRESENTS 72ND NATIONAL FILM AWARDS; CONFERS DADASAHEB PHALKE AWARD ON SHRI ANANT NAG

The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu presented the 72nd National Film Awards at a function held at Ekta Nagar, Kevadia, Gujarat today (September 22, 2026). She also conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024 upon veteran actor Shri Anant Nag in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema.

Speaking on the occasion, the President congratulated all the award winners who, through their exceptional talent and hard work have carved a niche for themselves at the national level. She expressed happiness that Shri Anant Nag has been honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. She said that his acting in films represents a synthesis of the finest elements of theatre and cinema. He is renowned for his natural, restrained and authentic performances. He sets an ideal example for future generations of artists.

The President said that the image of India is reflected in films across all languages and regions. Indian cinema embodies the dreams, traditions, and struggles of the Indian people, as well as the possibilities for the future. She was happy to note that the ceremony to honour outstanding films is being held on the premises of the Statue of Unity, near the Wall of Unity. She said that the occasion seemed to evoke the presence of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the architect of India’s unity, as though he were himself blessing this festival celebrating the country’s cultural unity.

The President appreciated all the award-winning films. She said that the film ‘Article 370’ presents a vivid account of the serious challenges facing the country's unity and their solutions. The non-feature film ‘Bhangaar’ expresses unseen dimensions related to life and death, meaning and meaninglessness. ‘Swatantrya Veer Savarkar’ is an artistic tribute to the extraordinary life story of Veer Savarkar Ji. The film ‘Bhakshak’ raises societal awareness about the extremely serious issue of women's safety. National-level recognition of the Santhali film ‘Angen’ has provided encouragement to an outstanding film and it has also fostered cultural diversity and social inclusion.

The President commended the jury members for selecting films that address significant issues concerning society and the nation. She said that women's participation in every regional jury should be ensured. She underlined that in any field, a holistic human perspective can be formed by incorporating the viewpoint of women.

The President said that maintaining a sense of respect and sensitivity towards every member of the team should be an integral part of the film industry's work culture. She urged the key representatives of the creative economy to ensure that the workers, small-scale artists, assistants and strugglers receive due respect and social security.

The President said that the popular film artists possess immense potential to influence the people of the country, especially the youth. When successful film artists speak about the benefits of a disciplined lifestyle, millions of children and young people emulate them. She urged celebrities not to endorse products that are harmful to health. She said that a true star is one who spreads light, not darkness.