The winners of the 70th
National Film Awards
were announced on Friday, August 16.
Neena Gupta
has won the National Award for
Best Supporting Actress
for her remarkable performance in the film ‘
Uunchai
‘. This recognition marks a significant milestone in her illustrious career, which has spanned over three decades. Gupta’s journey in the film industry has been characterized by her dedication and talent, making her one of the most respected figures in Indian cinema.
Neena Gupta’s latest accolade is a testament to her enduring talent and hard work.
In a chat with News18, she expressed her initial disbelief upon learning about her win, stating that she was “happily surprised” and had to ask her manager to confirm the news. Gupta reflected on the significance of this award, emphasizing that it validates the hard work she has put into her craft over the years.
The ‘Badhaai Ho’ actor’s excitement was heightened by the news that
Sooraj Barjatya
won the Best Director award for Uunchai. She expressed her deep respect for him, recalling her long-standing desire to work with him. She reminisced, “I used to try really hard to meet him some 30-35 years ago. I could never meet him. From there to now, it feels great. I’m very happy that he received the honour.” The fact that she finally got the opportunity to work with him in Uunchai feels like a dream come true.
The actress has received an outpouring of love and congratulations from her co-stars, which has further amplified her happiness. “We have a Uunchai group that we made when we were shooting for the film. Everybody there congratulated me and said that I deserved it. Sooraj ji also wrote me a very sweet message, as did
Boman
, along with the staff members and the assistant directors. It has all been very nice,” expressed the actress.
Neena is going to celebrate her win with daughter Masaba who is expecting a baby soon. She mentioned that Masaba is taking her out for lunch, although due to a cold, she intends to postpone any larger celebrations. “In fact, I wish someone would throw me a party (laughs). I’m flying really high right now. A National Award is a National Award. Bahut pratishtha hoti hai usse, bahut izzat badhti hai usse” Neena expressed.
The actress’s career began with her first National Award for Bazar Sitaram in 1993, followed by another for Woh Chokri in 1994. Now, after three decades, she has once again been recognized in the same category for Uunchai. This win not only highlights her exceptional talent but also represents a full-circle moment in her career, particularly in relation to her long-standing admiration for Barjatya.
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