The 71st National Awards are expected to be declared today, August 1. According to reports, the final report by the jury will be submitted to the Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Ashwini Vaishnaw and Minister of State L. Murugan, after which an official announcement will take place at 6 pm at New Delhi’s National Media Centre.
This year’s National Awards aim to honour cinematic excellence across India that unfolded in 2023. While many box-office hits emerged that year, like Leo, Jawan, Pathaan, etc., the top contenders for this year's awards are reportedly Rani Mukerji and Vikrant Massey.
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Mukerji starred in Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway, a legal drama helmed by Ashima Chibber. The film was based on the remarkable true story of Sagarika Chakraborty, whose children were taken away by Norwegian authorities.
On the other hand, Massey featured in 12th Fail, a sleeper hit by Vidhu Vinod Chopra. The film is another true story based on an IPS officer’s determined journey to crack the UPSC exams.
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In an interview with News18, Maasey expressed his eagerness for 12th Fail to be celebrated at the ceremony. The actor said, “I hope it does. And I’m sorry, without cost of sounding pompous, and with utmost humility. I hope it does. I hope the film wins an award. I hope Vidhu Vinod Chopra wins an award. I hope I win an award. I’ve always aspired for one."
“I’ve prayed for one when I was that young kid wanting to become an actor, I always wanted a National Award because that’s the greatest achievement an actor in India can have, to be presented with an award by the President of the country. And I hope it happens. So, fingers crossed," he continued.