At the prestigious 70th National Film Awards, held in New Delhi, celebrated filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya stood at the helm of a truly outstanding cinematic achievement. His latest film, ‘Uunchai,’ a poignant tale that diverges from his signature style of grand opulence, was honored in an emotional ceremony attended by dignitaries from all over India. President Droupadi Murmu had the privilege of presenting the award, a moment that marked a significant milestone in Barjatya’s illustrious career.
Produced collaboratively by Rajshri Productions, Mahaveer Jain Films, and Boundless Media, ‘Uunchai’ has become a hallmark of storytelling, renowned for weaving intricate themes of friendship, perseverance, and endurance. Acclaimed not just for its narrative depth, the film received accolades for its breathtaking visual journey, tailored against the towering beauty of the Himalayas. It is a title that not only brought the cinematic artistry of Barjatya into a new light but simultaneously highlighted the talented dynamics of veteran actress Neena Gupta, who was also recognized for her exemplary role as she clinched her second National Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Reflecting on the journey that brought ‘Uunchai’ to such profound recognition, Barjatya expressed a heartfelt connection to this unique project. “Uunchai wasn’t the kind of film people expected from me,” remarked the filmmaker. He admitted to stepping away from the grandeur traditionally associated with his previous works. Instead, he followed an intuition that ‘Uunchai’ was a project destined for him. “The film chose me,” he continued. He described the National Award as a perfect and fitting culmination of a challenging yet rewarding creative exploration.
Filmed during the uncertain times of the pandemic, ‘Uunchai’ embodies a story filled with hope and resilience, elements much needed in the backdrop of global uncertainty. It stands out as the first Hindi film to brave the treacherous and breathtaking terrains of the Everest Base Camp, surpassing great physical and logistical obstacles.
. This feat brought the entire cast and crew into a domain of unprecedented challenges that pushed them to literal and metaphorical heights. “This film pushed me to new heights, both literally and creatively,” Barjatya noted, recounting the formidable experiences faced during production.
Despite achieving such a monumental accomplishment, Barjatya affirmed that his journey as a storyteller is far from over. “I’m not done yet,” he stated with infectious enthusiasm, underscoring his desire to continue exploring uncharted cinematic territories and scaling even greater artistic heights.
Parallel to Sooraj Barjatya’s personal triumph, ‘Uunchai’ marked another remarkable achievement with Neena Gupta’s recognition for her supportive role. Her heartfelt portrayal of Shabina Siddique captured audiences and critics alike, securing her as a formidable presence in the film industry. “Neena Gupta’s performance in Uunchai is a testament to her extraordinary talent and dedication,” commented Barjatya, attributing significant gratitude to Gupta’s role in the making of the film’s success.
The celebration of ‘Uunchai’ resonates deep within the collaboration and cohesiveness of its team. A myriad of talents, including legendary actors such as Amitabh Bachchan, Anupam Kher, Boman Irani, Sarika, and Parineeti Chopra, brought to life the vision encapsulated within ‘Uunchai.’ Barjatya reflected on this camaraderie, emphasizing that his entire cast and crew were pivotal pillars supporting him through the journey. Their collective belief and endurance of challenging conditions contributed to the unforgettable essence of the project.
The National Film Awards ceremony in New Delhi wasn’t just a moment of recognition—it served as a platform to honor the relentless spirit and artistic bravery of filmmakers like Sooraj Barjatya. For Barjatya, ‘Uunchai’ is not merely a film but a testament to the power of heartfelt storytelling—one that will continue to inspire for generations to come.
