In a grand celebration of cinematic excellence, director Sooraj Barjatya was honored at the 70th National Film Awards ceremony held in New Delhi. Receiving his accolade from President Droupadi Murmu, Barjatya stood tall as he accepted the prestigious award for his film ‘Uunchai’. This film, a beautiful collaboration produced by Rajshri Productions along with Mahaveer Jain Films and Boundless Media, has captivated audiences with its emotional resonance and stunning visual storytelling. It was a night of double delight as veteran actress Neena Gupta also received her second National Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the same film.
Reflecting on this remarkable journey with ‘Uunchai’, Barjatya expressed his heartfelt sentiments, stating, “Uunchai wasn’t the kind of film people expected from me. It didn’t possess the grandeur typically associated with my previous works. But it stemmed from a deeper place within me. I didn’t choose Uunchai; it chose me. Receiving this award today feels like the perfect conclusion to this incredible journey.”
‘Uunchai’ was a project born in the midst of the global pandemic, a period marked by profound uncertainty for filmmakers and audiences alike. The film artfully narrates a tale of enduring friendship, unwavering hope, and human resilience, all set against the majestic backdrop of the Himalayas. Notably, it became the first Hindi film to be shot at the Everest Base Camp, perched over 17,000 feet above sea level. This ambitious choice made the production both a physical and creative conquest for the entire cast and crew. “This film pushed me to new heights, both literally and creatively,” Barjatya remarked as he recounted the formidable risks and challenges faced while filming in such extreme conditions.
Underscoring his dedication to storytelling, Barjatya added with a smile, “I’m not done yet.
. There are many more stories to tell and many more heights to reach.”
In a significant highlight, Neena Gupta’s portrayal of Shabina Siddique in ‘Uunchai’ won her a well-deserved second National Award for Best Supporting Actress. Her performance infused the film with emotional depth and sincerity, garnering acclaim from critics and audiences alike. “Neena Gupta’s performance in Uunchai is a testament to her extraordinary talent and dedication,” said Barjatya. “Her win is well-deserved, amplifying the joy of this recognition.”
The film’s success is a testament to the remarkable teamwork and dedication of everyone involved, from the talented production team to the star-studded ensemble cast featuring Bollywood legends like Amitabh Bachchan, Anupam Kher, Boman Irani, Sarika, and Parineeti Chopra. Barjatya was quick to acknowledge their invaluable contributions, “My entire cast was my backbone during the making of Uunchai. Their belief in me and the project, as well as their willingness to brave such demanding conditions, made this journey unforgettable.”
As the awards night drew to a close, it was evident that ‘Uunchai’ had not only made a significant mark on the Indian cinematic landscape but had also set new benchmarks for future filmmaking endeavors. The remarkable feat of creating a movie that so intimately ties its narrative to its natural setting has certainly paved a new path for storytelling in Indian cinema.
The evening also served as a powerful reminder of the resilience and creativity inherent in the film industry, qualities that enable filmmakers like Barjatya to continue pushing boundaries and challenging norms. As the film continues to receive accolades, the legacy of ‘Uunchai’ as a tale of human spirit and cinematic bravery stands preserved as a beacon for artists worldwide.
Sooraj Barjatya’s passion for cinema remains undiminished, with plans to explore new narratives and conquer new challenges. With this award as a new feather in his cap, the director looks towards a future brimming with stories waiting to be told, ensuring his fans and followers that the art of storytelling is alive and thriving. As he puts it, there are many more stories to unearth and many more peaks to scale.
