72nd National Film Awards Ceremony: Government Changes Venue; Rahul Gandhi Raises Concerns Over Selection of Gujarat

The 72nd National Film Awards ceremony will take place in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, on September 22, 2026, moving from its traditional venue in Delhi. This decision has sparked debate within the film community, with filmmaker Rahul Dholakia expressing reservations about the change and proposing that states like Maharashtra, Kerala, or Tamil Nadu would have been more suitable locations for the event.

Online reactions to this announcement have been varied, reflecting a mix of support and criticism from netizens.

Among the notable winners at this years awards are prominent figures such as Kartik Aaryan, Mammootty, Yami Gautam, Aditya Dhar, Rajkumar Periasamy, and Randeep Hooda, all of whom have made significant contributions to Indian cinema. The National Film Awards are one of the most prestigious accolades in the Indian film industry, recognizing outstanding work in various categories, including acting, direction, and technical achievements. The shift to Ekta Nagar, which is a recent development aimed at promoting tourism and culture in the region, may provide new opportunities for showcasing Indian cinema.