Ahead of the National Award ceremony set to take place on October 8, let us revisit the popular filmmakers and directors who have been honoured with this prestigious recognition in past few years.
Shoojit Sircar is a master at creating compelling cinema that always touches the hearts of the audience. Interestingly, he and his films have won several National Awards. In 2013, Sircar won the National Film Award for Best Popular Film providing wholesome entertainment for Vicky Donor. His film Madras Cafe won National Award for Best Audiography, Pink won the National Film Award for Best Film on other social issues, and his film Sardar Udham won several National Awards in categories including Best Feature Film in Hindi.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali is one of the finest filmmakers, having created some of the best cinematic spectacles. For Devdas, he won the National Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. For Black, he won the award for Best Feature Film in Hindi. As a producer, he won the award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment for Mary Kom. He also won Best Director for Bajirao Mastani, Best Music Director for Padmaavat, and Best Screenplay and Best Editing for Gangubai Kathiawadi.
SS Rajamouli is among the filmmakers who have created some of the biggest blockbusters of all time. He has also made a distinct mark with several National Awards under his name. His film Eega won the National Award for Best Feature Film in Telugu, Baahubali: The Beginning won for Best Feature Film, Baahubali 2: The Conclusion won for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment, and RRR won for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment.
Mani Ratnam is often recognized for the depth and mystery in his films, he has also been awarded several National Awards. His film Mouna Ragam won the National Award for Best Regional Film, Geethanjali won for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment, Anjali won for Best Regional Film, Roja won for Best Film on National Integration, Bombay won for Best Film on National Integration, Kannathil Muthamittal won for Best Regional Film, and Ponniyin Selvan: I won for Best Regional Film.
Karan Johar has made some of the most entertaining films. He is a filmmaker who has a strong understanding of the audience's taste. While he has been honored with several prestigious awards, he has also won many National Awards. His film Kuch Kuch Hota Hai won the National Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment, and Shershaah won the Special Jury Award (Feature Film).