”The National Film Award Holds a Very Special Place in the Heart of an Indian Filmmaker”: Jay Patel

Randeep Hooda’s National Film Award recognition for his directorial debut Swatantrya Veer Savarkar has brought renewed attention to the determination, preparation and collaborative effort behind the historical film. For Jay Patel, who portrayed revolutionary Shyamji Krishna Varma in the film, the recognition represents not only a milestone for Hooda but also a moment of pride for everyone involved in the production.

Hooda received the Best Debut Film of a Director honour at the 72nd National Film Awards for Swatantrya Veer Savarkar. The award was presented by President Droupadi Murmu at a ceremony held on September 22 at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, against the backdrop of the Statue of Unity.

For Patel, who experienced the production from within the cast, the moment carried significance beyond the ceremony itself. “It was not just an award. For so many new filmmakers around the world, it is a reminder of what can happen when you have a vision and continue working through the difficulties,” Patel says.

Swatantrya Veer Savarkar marked Hooda’s first feature film as a director while he also portrayed the central character. Patel recalls the production as demanding, with long schedules, changing logistics and the practical challenges associated with a large-scale historical film.

His own transformation into Shyamji Krishna Varma required several hours of makeup, particularly as the character was portrayed across different stages of his life.

“Sometimes it felt like even 24 hours were not enough,” Patel recalls.

Hooda’s preparation included a significant physical transformation for the role of Savarkar. His responsibilities extended beyond performing in front of the camera to making creative decisions behind it, coordinating performances and navigating the practical demands of a major historical production.

“He was completely committed to the character and to the film,” Patel says.

Patel travelled from New York to India for the National Film Award celebrations, making the occasion particularly meaningful after having been part of the film’s journey. The ceremony itself marked a notable moment for the National Film Awards, with the 72nd edition being held at Ekta Nagar in Gujarat rather than New Delhi.

“Global recognition is always special, but there is something uniquely meaningful about being recognised by your own country. For an Indian filmmaker, the National Film Award holds a very special place in the heart.For me, the National Film Award is not just about individual . It represents the work, dedication and dreams of an entire filmmaking community. That is why it carries such a special meaning for an Indian filmmaker.”