Sooraj Barjatya Honored with Best Director at 70th National Film Awards

Sooraj Barjatya wins Best Director for 'Uunchai' at the 70th National Film Awards. The film highlights friendship and a quest to Mount Everest featuring Amitabh Bachchan and Boman Irani. Barjatya, receiving the award from President Murmu, returns to directing after 2015's 'Prem Ratan Dhan Payo'.

Veteran filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya was celebrated at the 70th National Film Awards on Tuesday, receiving the Best Director accolade for his film 'Uunchai'. The award ceremony, held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, saw President Droupadi Murmu honoring Barjatya. 'Uunchai', heralding his return to direction after a hiatus post the 2015 release of 'Prem Ratan Dhan Payo', bagged critical acclaim.

The film narrates the tale of four friends, played by Boman Irani, Amitabh Bachchan, Danny Denzongpa, and Anupam Kher, who embark on an ambitious journey to Mount Everest. The aspiration remains unfulfilled until Denzongpa's character passes away, prompting his friends to carry forward his dream. With a cast including Parineeti Chopra, Neena Gupta, and Sarika, the story delves into themes of friendship and perseverance.

The announcement of winners was considerably delayed, owing to pandemic-related setbacks, with the 70th edition declaring its winners in August 2024. Among other honorees were Allu Arjun, Alia Bhatt, and Kriti Sanon, recognized for their stellar performances in 'Pushpa', 'Gangubai Kathiawadi', and 'Mimi' respectively. Despite the challenges, the ceremony highlighted the resilience and diversity of Indian cinema. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)