Actor Pavan Malhotra has once again made headlines, securing his second National Film Award, this time for Best Supporting Actor for his outstanding performance in the Haryanvi film ‘Fouja’. In an exclusive interview with ANI, the versatile actor expressed his excitement and elaborated on why this accolade holds a special place in his heart.
Reflecting on this monumental achievement, Malhotra said, “This is my second National Award, and to be honest, I feel very proud and it feels great. I’m also happy that I received it because that character is truly close to my heart.” The actor went on to emphasize the personal significance of the role and how it resonated deeply with him on various levels.
Malhotra’s portrayal in ‘Fouja’ has received widespread acclaim, further solidifying his reputation as a remarkable actor in Indian cinema. When asked about his choice to work in a regional film, specifically one aimed at a Haryanvi audience, he revealed a personal connection that made the decision an easy one. “When we were growing up in the 60s, it was a time of war, and to be honest, as a child, I always used to say that I wanted to join the military. So when this film came to me, someone asked why I took on this film since it’s a Haryanvi film. I said it was because of the subject and the character I played in it,” he shared.
This recent win has added another feather to Malhotra’s already illustrious cap. His first National Award came in 1998 for his performance in the critically acclaimed film ‘Fakir’. Over a career that spans nearly four decades, Malhotra has graced the silver screen in more than 55 films across various languages and has made significant contributions to over 16 television shows. His versatility and ability to adapt to different roles have made him a respected figure in the Indian film industry.
The 70th National Film Awards, where Malhotra’s achievement was announced, took place in the national capital. The prestigious ceremony, which celebrates excellence in Indian cinema, featured a distinguished jury that included Rahul Rawail as the Chairperson of the Feature Film Jury, Nila Madhab Panda as the Chairperson of the Non-Feature Film Jury, and Gangadhar Mudalair heading the Best Writing on Cinema Jury.
In the interview, Malhotra also touched upon the evolving landscape of regional cinema in India.
. “The regional film industry is growing, and I am incredibly fortunate to be able to contribute to it. These films offer a unique opportunity to explore stories and characters that might not otherwise be told,” he said. His passion for storytelling and commitment to the craft is evident in his choice of roles and the dedication he brings to each character.
Discussing the film ‘Fouja’, Malhotra highlighted how the film’s narrative struck a chord with him. “The subject matter of ‘Fouja’ is very profound. It deals with themes of resilience, honor, and sacrifice, which are universal. Yet, it is rooted in the specific cultural context of Haryana, giving it a distinct flavor that I believe was essential to the film’s impact,” he explained.
Despite his monumental success, Pavan Malhotra remains grounded, attributing much of his accomplishments to the support of his family and colleagues. “None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of my family, friends, and the incredible teams I’ve worked with over the years. Each award is recognition of collective effort and shared passion,” he said humbly.
As he looks to the future, Malhotra is excited about continuing his journey in cinema. “There are so many stories left to tell, so many characters left to explore. I am eager to continue this journey, pushing boundaries and hopefully inspiring others along the way,” he concluded.
Malhotra’s recent win not only reaffirms his exceptional talent but also spotlight the rich potential of regional cinema in India. Through his work, he continues to pave the way for more diverse and meaningful storytelling, proving that great art knows no language or regional barriers.
This interview and subsequent reporting underscore Malhotra’s enduring legacy in Indian cinema and his unwavering dedication to his craft.
