The 72nd National Film Awards are scheduled to take place in Gujarat on September 22, 2026. This marks a departure from the traditional venue of New Delhi, reflecting a broader strategy to celebrate Indian cinema across different states. President Droupadi Murmu is confirmed to attend the ceremony and will personally present the prestigious honors to the winners. The event is anticipated to draw the biggest names from both Bollywood and regional film industries, including Tollywood, Kollywood, and Mollywood.
The decision to host the awards in Gujarat comes at a time when the state is aggressively promoting itself as a hub for film production and tourism. The ceremony will recognize excellence in several categories, including Best Feature Film, Best Actor, and Best Director. Industry insiders suggest that the competition this year is particularly stiff, with several high-budget blockbusters and critically acclaimed independent films vying for the top prizes. The shift in venue is also seen as a nod to the growing influence of regional cinema on the national stage.
- Presidential Presence — President Droupadi Murmu will be the chief guest and award presenter
- New Venue — The ceremony moves to Gujarat on September 22, 2026, from its usual Delhi location
- Celebrating Diversity — Awards will span multiple languages, highlighting the pan-India nature of the film industry
In other major entertainment news, Aamir Khan is set to collaborate with director Ashutosh Gowariker for a new project titled Lalkaara. Reports indicate that Danish Pandor, known for his work in Dhurandhar, has joined the cast. However, contrary to earlier rumors, Vikrant Massey is not part of this film. The reunion of Khan and Gowariker has generated significant buzz, given their historic success with the Oscar-nominated Lagaan. Fans are eagerly waiting to see if this new venture can replicate that cinematic magic.
Meanwhile, the digital space is abuzz with speculation regarding the OTT rights for the film Toxic. While several streaming platforms are in discussions with the producers, sources clarify that the figures currently being reported are pure speculation. No official deal has been signed yet. Similarly, the teaser for Ranbir Kapoor's Love and War has reportedly been delayed. It is now expected to be released alongside the highly anticipated Ramayana, which also stars Kapoor. This strategic move aims to maximize the promotional impact for both big-ticket projects.
On the international circuit, Sayani Gupta is making waves with her directorial debut, Aasmani. The film is slated to be screened at 10 international film festivals over the next two months. This achievement marks a significant milestone for Gupta, who has already established herself as a versatile actor. The film's success on the festival circuit is expected to pave the way for a wider theatrical or digital release later this year, showcasing the talent of Indian women directors on a global platform.
However, not all news in the industry is celebratory. Nora Fatehi has reportedly been sued for ₹3 crore by an aviation company. The lawsuit stems from comments she allegedly made regarding a "toy" and "Lego airplane" during a promotional event. While Fatehi's legal team has yet to issue a formal statement, the case has already become a talking point in Mumbai's legal and entertainment circles. This highlights the increasing scrutiny that celebrities face for their public remarks and brand associations.
In property news, Pinky Roshan, mother of superstar Hrithik Roshan, has made a significant investment in Mumbai real estate. She recently purchased two luxury apartments for a combined total of ₹67.30 crore. The high-value transaction reflects the continued demand for premium housing in the city's upscale neighborhoods. Additionally, veteran actor Bipasha Basu is set to make her comeback with Hansal Mehta's upcoming project, Barabanki. This news has been welcomed by fans who have been waiting to see the actor return to the screen in a performance-driven role.
The National Film Awards ceremony in Gujarat is expected to provide a comprehensive look at the state of Indian cinema. As the industry grapples with changing viewer habits and the rise of OTT, the awards serve as a reminder of the enduring power of the silver screen. With President Murmu leading the celebrations on September 22, the event will likely set the tone for the upcoming awards season and the future direction of the country's diverse film landscape.
