Cinema VinesRandeep Hooda has been awarded the National Film Award for Best Debut Director for his 2024 biographical drama Swatantrya Veer Savarkar. The film, which chronicles the life of Indian freedom fighter and politician Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, premiered in theatres in March 2024 after a protracted production journey that saw the original director Mahesh Manjrekar step away over creative differences.
In a statement following the announcement, Hooda expressed his astonishment and gratitude, saying, “Being announced as the winner of the National Award for Best Debut Director for Swatantrya Veer Savarkar is a moment I’m still trying to process. This film asked more of me than anything I’ve ever done.” He added that the film’s challenging shoot tested the entire crew, but that perseverance prevailed, noting, “The journey of this film was filled with challenges at every juncture, but I’m glad we saw it through and overcame each of those.”
Hooda, who also co‑wrote, co‑produced and portrayed Savarkar, reflected on the responsibility of telling the historical figure’s story with honesty. He said, “As an actor, co‑writer and first‑time director, I gave this film everything I had because I felt an immense responsibility towards telling Veer Savarkar’s story with sincerity and honesty.” He praised his team’s resilience, stating, “Whatever we endured while making this film is insignificant compared to the life he lived and the sacrifices he made.”
Speaking about the film’s production hurdles, Hooda noted that the crew’s dedication was crucial. “I’m deeply grateful to my entire team for believing in this dream and standing by it through every high and low. This recognition belongs to all of us,” he said, adding a hopeful note for younger audiences: “I hope it inspires more people, especially the younger generation, to discover and reflect on Veer Savarkar’s legacy.”
The 72nd National Film Awards, which honored films certified in 2024, also recognized Yami Gautam, Kartik Aaryan and Mammootty for Best Actor awards, and Aditya Suhas Jambhale’s Article 370 won Best Feature Film. Hooda’s accolade joins a roster of achievements that underscore the diverse talent shaping Indian cinema today.
