Sharmila Tagore Elated as 'Gulmohar' Wins Best Film at the 2024 National Awards
Sharmila Tagore expressed immense joy and honor as her 2023 film, *Gulmohar*, clinched the Best Film National Award in 2024. Following the announcement, News18 Showsha conducted an exclusive interview where the veteran actress shared her delight and extended congratulations to the entire *Gulmohar* team. "I was just about to have lunch when I got the news. I'm incredibly happy. I immediately contacted Rahul, our director, and then Manoj. Our team, including Simran, Kavita, Utsavi, Rahul, Manoj, and myself, have stayed connected since the film's release. Unfortunately, we couldn't keep in touch with Suraj Sharma as he lives quite far away," sharmila said.
She added, "Imagine what a significant achievement this is for Rahul. *Gulmohar* is his debut film, and this accolade is very meaningful to him. The film also won for Best Dialogues. It was pure joy to perform those beautiful lines. I had an incredible experience shooting this film, especially the scenes with Amol Palekar."
The actress expressed her heartfelt thanks to the National Film Awards 2024 jury and the government of India. "The love and appreciation we received for *Gulmohar* upon its release continue to this day. This award is proof that hard work and creating something beautiful are always recognized. I'm thrilled for all of us. I profoundly thank the jury for their deliberation and the government of India," she stated.
*Gulmohar* marked sharmila Tagore's return to the screen 13 years after *Break Ke Baad*. Her portrayal of a family matriarch with a queer identity won her widespread critical acclaim. Reflecting on this, she said, "I'm even more thrilled because I received this award for a film after such a long hiatus from acting. I wouldn't call it a comeback. We're overjoyed with all the love we've received."
Produced by Star Studios in collaboration with Chalkboard Entertainment and Autonomous Works, *Gulmohar* features original music by siddhartha Khosla and stars Simran, Suraj Sharma, Amol Palekar, and kaveri Seth, among others. The film, praised by fans and critics alike, centers on the multi-generational Batra family preparing to leave their 34-year-old family home.