72nd National Film Awards Announced in New Delhi

The winners of the 72nd National Film Awards were announced in New Delhi on July 18, 2026. The awards, selected by a jury headed by veteran Malayalam filmmaker Jayaraj, recognised feature and non-feature films certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) between January 1, 2024 and December 31, 2024.

Historical Background

The National Film Awards, instituted in 1954, are India's most prestigious cinema honours, presented annually by the Directorate of Film Festivals under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to recognise excellence across Indian-language cinema.

Previous Related Events

The 70th and 71st National Film Awards recognised films in Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, and other regional industries, continuing the tradition of honouring the Best Feature Film, Best Actor, Best Actress, and technical categories.

Why Important for TNPSC

National honours and cultural/awards current affairs, including cinema and jury composition, are commonly tested in the Awards and Culture segments of TNPSC exams.

Key Highlights

• 72nd National Film Awards announced July 18, 2026.
• Jury chaired by filmmaker Jayaraj (Malayalam cinema).
• Eligible films: those certified by CBFC in calendar year 2024.

Important Facts

• National Film Awards instituted: 1954.
• Administered by: Directorate of Film Festivals (DFF).
• Awards presented by the President of India at a formal ceremony.

Important Years and Dates

• 1954 - National Film Awards instituted.
• July 18, 2026 - 72nd edition announced.

Ministries Involved

Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

Important Personalities

Jayaraj, veteran Malayalam filmmaker, headed the 72nd National Film Awards jury.

Organisations and Headquarters

Directorate of Film Festivals, headquartered in New Delhi, under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

Related Static GK

The National Film Awards include the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India's highest honour in cinema, instituted in 1969.

Important Terms and Definitions

CBFC (Central Board of Film Certification): the statutory body regulating public exhibition of films in India under the Cinematograph Act, 1952.

Exam-Oriented Notes

Remember the National Film Awards' founding year (1954) and the distinguishing Dadasaheb Phalke Award (1969) for lifetime contribution.

Memorization Points

• National Film Awards founded: 1954.
• 72nd edition announced: July 18, 2026.
• Jury head: Jayaraj.

TNPSC-style MCQs

1. The National Film Awards of India were instituted in which year?

• A) 1947
• B) 1954
• C) 1969
• D) 1975

Answer: B) 1954

Explanation: The National Film Awards were instituted in 1954 and are presented annually by the Directorate of Film Festivals.

2. Who headed the jury for the 72nd National Film Awards?

• A) Mani Ratnam
• B) Jayaraj
• C) Shekhar Kapur
• D) Adoor Gopalakrishnan

Answer: B) Jayaraj

Explanation: Veteran Malayalam filmmaker Jayaraj headed the jury for the 72nd National Film Awards.

3. India's highest award for lifetime contribution to cinema is:

• A) Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award
• B) Dadasaheb Phalke Award
• C) Padma Vibhushan
• D) National Film Award for Best Film

Answer: B) Dadasaheb Phalke Award

Explanation: Instituted in 1969, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award is presented as part of the National Film Awards for outstanding lifetime contribution to Indian cinema.