Manoj Bajpayee he received a special mention at the national awards for his performance in Gulmohar. Minutes after the announcement, Manoj told this writer, “I’m over the moon. I feel so blessed to have received my fourth national award and that too for a very special film.

Manoj Bajpai had several releases in 2023. Each one, be it Gulmohar, Sirf Ek Bandaa Kafi Hai or Joram, brought him immense praise. “I have never stopped thirsting for challenging roles, which is why you are surprised every time. I don’t try to impress the audience by playing a variety of roles. I only do work that excites me. Being a part of a film (Gulmohar) with Sharmila Tagoreji was an achievement for me. Sitting next to her during the promotions of the film was a privilege. “

Gulmohar also won the National Award for Best Hindi Film. Rahul V Chittella worked extensively with Mira Nair. He is seen in his debut film. Gulmohar is like Mira’s Wedding without the wedding, there is a distinct sterility and joylessness around the characters, scattered and rudderless, even though they repeatedly talk about keeping the family together, they seem to have little interest in actually sharing the same roof . Chittella and his co-writer Arpita Mukherjee spread the plot on wafer-thin canvas. For such a tediously sketchy script to come to life, more dedicated storytelling and performances were needed. Tragically, the actors rarely get a chance to have a say, much less to coalesce into a family bond.

It was a double celebration for screen diva Sharmila Tagore. Not only was August 16 her son Saif’s birthday, but she was informed that Gulmohar had won the National Award for Best Hindi Film.

Taking a break from the festive season, Sharmila Tagore spoke exclusively to this writer and said, “I am over the moon. very happy Well done Gulmohar team led by first time director Rahul Chittella. What a beautiful journey this film has had!”

Gulmohar director Rahul Chittella adds, “I am absolutely honored by this prestigious win for our beloved film Gulmohar! I’m especially excited that Manoj Bajpayee also won Best Actor (Special Mention). He is a rare treasure and it was a privilege to create this film with him and Sharmila ji! Finally, my special thanks to my creative and writing partner, Arpita Mukherjee, for standing by me through this. I would like to give a special thanks to Star Studios for believing in our shared vision! We set out to explore the meaning of family and home in today’s times, and we became one in the process!”