President Droupadi Murmu presented the award at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony in Kevadia, Gujarat, on Tuesday. Randeep Hooda was honoured with the National Film Award for Best Debut Director for Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, which he also directed and starred in.
Because it is a limitless endeavour, writing was most liberating. Though I have not received much recognition as an actor in terms of awards, of any kind, but the audience for whom the work actually is for, has always generously showered me with immense deep love and admiration. It has given me new wings to do more of it in the future. Having acted, directed and co-written Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, the actor say directing a film is most demanding. Acting did become a bit harder than usual while telling the whole story and not just mine as a character. Directing is the most complete art form.”
Speaking to us he says, “I am and always be an actor first. Having said that, to be recognised for my craft in my very first attempt as a director is very heartening and encouraging. He says, “I enjoyed all three a lot but being a director is the most demanding of the lot.
