Bollywood stars overwhelmed with National Awards glory

Bollywood personalities were recognised for their excellence and contribution to Indian cinema at the 66th National Film Awards ceremony in Delhi on Monday. Actor Ayushmann Khurrana, who received his first National Award as Best Actor for a complex role in Andhadhun took to Instagram to thank fans. Ayushmann posted a short clip from the event that shows him receiving the award from Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu. Ayushmann shared his Best Actor trophy with Vicky Kaushal, who was feted for his role in Uri: The Surgical Strike. Filmmaker Aditya Dhar won the Best Director award while Shashwat Sachdev received the award for Best Music Direction (Background Music) for the same film.

Director Amit Sharma’s Badhaai Ho won the 66th National Film Award for Best Wholesome Entertainment. “The experience of going on stage and receiving the award was surreal and filled with pride. I had made this film without any expectations but the love we have received is unparallel. For me this was more special because my father and my partner Aleya Sen, who is also the producer of the film were present at the ceremony and our company Chrome Productions has won a National Award with its Maiden film project Badhaai Ho,” he said.

Veteran filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Padmaavat was honoured with Best Music Direction and the Best Choreography awards. “Padmaavat has had a journey of its own and that has made this film even closer to my heart. Especially, the film’s music was something I personally loved. Whether Ghoomar or Binte Dil, they had their own beauty. Deepika, Ranveer and Shahid also gave amazing performances which made this film what it is,” said Bhansali.

Veteran actress Surekha Sikri arrived on a wheelchair to accept her National Film Award and was welcomed with a loud cheer and standing ovation from the guests. Surekha won Best Supporting Actress award for her portrayal of a nagging grandma in Badhaai Ho.