Yami Gautam wins first National Award for 'Article 370', says much left to learn

Yami Gautam has won her first National Film Award, taking the Best Actress honour for her performance in the 2024 film 'Article 370'. She received the award from President Droupadi Murmu at the ceremony held in Kevadia, Gujarat.

Speaking to the media afterwards, the actor said the recognition was a proud moment for any artist who spends years working towards their dreams. "I'm still trying to soak in this moment. It's a great matter of pride and honour for any artist. Any film artist who's worked all their life," she said, adding that she spoke on behalf of everyone who comes to the city with dreams and does not know what life holds for them.

Yami also stressed the importance of continuing to work hard and learn even after a major honour. Speaking in Hindi, she said much remained for her to learn and many more roles to take up. "Aap mehnat karte rahiye, aap achha kaam karte rahiye, aur ek na ek din aisa hoga... Meri journey mein abhi mujhe bahut kuch seekhna baaki hai, bahut kaam karna baaki hai," she said, describing the venue as a historic place where she felt great pride.

The actor walked up to the stage with a smile and greeted the gathering with a traditional namaste before accepting the award. Her husband, filmmaker Aditya Dhar, was present at the ceremony and watched from the audience.

For the occasion, Yami wore a black saree with a golden border, paired with jhumkas and minimal jewellery, her hair in a neat bun decorated with white flowers.

'Article 370', directed by Aditya Suhas Jambhale, is a 2024 Hindi political action thriller produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Aditya Dhar and Lokesh Dhar. Inspired by true events, the film follows the developments surrounding the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir on August 5, 2019.