Gujarat BJP Defends Kevadia As National Film Awards Venue, Rebukes Uddhav Thackeray

Gujarat BJP has strongly criticised Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray over his recent remarks regarding the venue of the National Film Awards, saying the prestigious honours should not be associated with any particular state or region. The party said the National Film Awards represent the entire country and recognise contributions to India's film industry irrespective of language, geography or regional identity. Gujarat BJP chief spokesperson Dr Anil Patel said the awards are a national honour and therefore cannot be considered the property of any one state.

Patel stressed that films made in several Indian languages compete for the National Film Awards, making the ceremony a reflection of the country's diverse cinematic traditions. He said filmmakers from different parts of India participate in the awards process and compete for recognition across various categories. According to Patel, the national character of the awards is reflected in the wide range of films, languages and filmmaking traditions represented among the nominees and winners.

The Gujarat BJP spokesperson also highlighted the range of professionals whose work is recognised through the awards. He said the honours acknowledge not only actors and directors but also writers and other members of film crews who contribute to the making of a film. Patel pointed to the participation and contribution of the film industries of North, South and West India, arguing that the awards provide a common national platform for talent emerging from different regions.

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The remarks came amid a controversy over the decision to hold the National Film Awards ceremony at Kevadia Colony in Gujarat. Defending the choice of venue, Patel said there was no established rule that such a national ceremony must be held in Delhi. He pointed out that National Film Award functions have also been organised outside the national capital in the past, citing Chennai as an example. He used the precedent to argue that taking the ceremony to different parts of the country was not inconsistent with the national character of the awards.

Patel further defended Kevadia as a venue by linking it to the broader idea of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat”. He said the location symbolises the concept of a united India and can provide an appropriate setting for an event that brings together India's diverse film industries. The BJP spokesperson maintained that recognising contributions from filmmakers across the country should remain the central purpose of the National Film Awards, rather than the geographical location where the ceremony is held.

The Gujarat BJP's criticism was directed at Thackeray's recent comments about the venue of the awards. The party reiterated that the National Film Awards belong to the nation as a whole and are intended to celebrate India's broader cinematic achievements. Patel's comments sought to frame the venue issue in the context of India's cultural diversity, arguing that a ceremony celebrating filmmakers from different regions should not be viewed through the lens of state ownership or regional entitlement. The BJP maintained that holding the event in Gujarat does not alter its national character or the significance of the honours being presented.

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