Manoj Bajpayee’s film Gulmohar has emerged as the Best Hindi Film at the prestigious 70th National Film Awards, which were announced on Friday in the national capital. The awards, honoring the finest in Indian cinema for the year 2022, saw Gulmohar take center stage, not only for its win in the Best Hindi Film category but also for receiving a Special Mention, further highlighting its impact.
The National Film Awards jury, comprising notable figures such as Rahul Rawail (Chairperson of the Feature Film Jury), Nila Madhab Panda (Chairperson of the Non-Feature Film Jury), and Gangadhar Mudalair (Chairperson of the Best Writing on Cinema Jury), recognized Gulmohar for its poignant narrative and powerful performances.
Directed by Rahul V. Chittella, Gulmohar is a touching exploration of family dynamics and the deep-seated emotions that come to the fore during times of change. The film revolves around the multi-generational Batra family, who are preparing to move out of their 34-year-old family home, named Gulmohar. As they pack up their belongings, they also unpack years of secrets, insecurities, and the bonds that have kept them together, making it a journey of rediscovery for each member of the family.
Manoj Bajpayee, known for his nuanced performances, delivers yet another compelling portrayal in Gulmohar, capturing the complexities of familial relationships with his signature depth. The film also features veteran actress Sharmila Tagore, who adds a layer of grace and gravitas to the story. Simran and Suraj Sharma round out the talented cast, each contributing to the film’s rich tapestry of emotions.
In addition to Gulmohar, the 70th National Film Awards also recognized other notable works with Special Mentions. The Malayalam film Kadhikan, the Tamil epic Ponniyin Selvan: Part 1, and Sanjoy Salil Chowdhury were among those honored for their contributions to cinema.
Gulmohar‘s win at the National Film Awards is a testament to its powerful storytelling and the emotional resonance it has achieved with audiences and critics alike. As the Batra family’s story continues to touch hearts, the film’s success at the awards serves as a reminder of the enduring power of family and the ties that bind us all.
