Cinema VinesRandeep Hooda has added another milestone to his career by winning the Best Debut Director award at the 72nd National Film Awards for his 2024 biographical drama Swatantrya Veer Savarkar. The actor‑turned‑filmmaker directed, co‑wrote, co‑produced and starred in the film, which chronicles the life of freedom fighter and political thinker Vinayak Damodar Savarkar.
After the announcement, Hooda expressed his astonishment, 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.” He added that the project demanded more from him than any previous work, and that the journey was “filled with challenges at every juncture.” Despite the obstacles, he noted that the team “kept finding the strength to move forward.”
Hooda reflected on the weight of his responsibilities, stating, “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 emphasized that the hardships of production were “insignificant compared to the life he lived and the sacrifices he made.”
Grateful for the support of his crew, Hooda said, “I’m deeply grateful to my entire team for believing in this dream and standing by it through every high and low.” He hopes the award will inspire especially younger audiences to explore Savarkar’s legacy.
Swatantrya Veer Savarkar premiered in theatres on March 22, 2024. Written by Utkarsh Naithani, the Hindi‑language film traces Savarkar’s journey from his early years to his pivotal role in India’s freedom movement, highlighting key events. The film has been praised for its performances, notably Hooda’s portrayal, which required a significant physical transformation.
