The 70th National Film Awards ceremony in New Delhi was a night of triumph for filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya as he proudly accepted the prestigious accolade for his poignant film, ‘Uunchai’. The award, presented by President Droupadi Murmu, marked a significant achievement for Barjatya and the team behind this heartwarming project. Produced under the banner of Rajshri Productions in collaboration with Mahaveer Jain Films and Boundless Media, ‘Uunchai’ has been commended for its emotional resonance and stunning visual representation of its themes. Notably, the film also secured a National Award for the veteran actress Neena Gupta, recognizing her exceptional performance and marking her second win in the Best Supporting Actress category.
Reflecting on the film’s unique journey, Barjatya expressed his deep connection with the project, stating, “Uunchai wasn’t the kind of film people expected from me. It didn’t possess the grandiosity of my earlier works, but it was a story that came straight from the heart. I didn’t choose Uunchai; it chose me. Today, this award is the perfect culmination of that journey.” This sentiment underscores the personal nature of the film for Barjatya, manifesting as a narrative that challenged both him and his audiences’ expectations.
The journey of ‘Uunchai’ began amidst the global uncertainty brought about by the pandemic. During a time when many filmmakers faced insurmountable obstacles, Barjatya embarked on creating a narrative of friendship, hope, and resilience set against the majestic backdrop of the Himalayas. The film holds the distinction of being the first Hindi movie shot at the Everest Base Camp, a staggering 17,000 feet above sea level. This feat alone was as much a physical triumph as a creative one, requiring the cast and crew to undertake significant risks and hardships in an unforgiving environment. Barjatya reflected on these challenges, remarking, “This film pushed me to new heights, both literally and creatively.
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A smile crossed Barjatya’s face as he added, “I’m not done yet. There are many more stories to tell and many more heights to reach.” His comments signified not only his satisfaction with the recognition ‘Uunchai’ received but also his unwavering commitment to filmmaking and storytelling.
The film’s success was further amplified by Neena Gupta’s win, which brought double joy to the ‘Uunchai’ team. Her portrayal of Shabina Siddique in the film was widely lauded for its depth and authenticity. Critics and audiences alike praised her outstanding contribution, which significantly enriched the film’s narrative. “Neena Gupta’s performance in Uunchai is a testament to her extraordinary talent and dedication. Her win is well deserved, and it only adds to the joy of this recognition,” Barjatya commented, reflecting his admiration for the actress’s skill.
Moreover, the achievement of ‘Uunchai’ stands as a testament to the remarkable collaboration and dedication of the entire cast and crew. Featuring a star-studded lineup that included Amitabh Bachchan, Anupam Kher, Boman Irani, Sarika, and Parineeti Chopra, Barjatya acknowledged that the film’s creation was a collective effort. “My entire cast was my backbone during the making of Uunchai. Their belief in me and the film, and their willingness to endure such challenging conditions, made this journey unforgettable,” he expressed, underscoring the unity and resolve that fueled the film’s success.
As the 70th National Film Awards concluded, ‘Uunchai’s triumph stands as a notable achievement in Indian cinema, highlighting stories driven by raw emotion and the human spirit’s indomitable nature. For Sooraj Barjatya and his team, this moment serves as both a culmination of their efforts and a stepping stone toward future narratives they are yet to unravel.
