Sanjay Mishra calls Bhumi Pednekkar his "lucky charm" after National Award win for 'Bhakshak,' says "every film with her has brought appreciation"
By Zoya Aziz, Mumbai, July 19
After over three decades in the film industry, veteran actor Sanjay Mishra has added another major honour to his career. The actor has won the Best Supporting Actor award at the 72nd National Film Awards for playing "Bhaskar Sinha" in the crime drama 'Bhakshak.'
Speaking after the announcement, Mishra, while speaking to ANI, said he had never expected the honour. He also spoke about working with Bhumi Pednekkar, saying the two films they have done together have both brought him appreciation. Calling Bhumi a "lucky charm," he said, "No, never. Never at all. But the best thing is that in both the films I have done with Bhumi, Dum Laga Ke Haisha and Bhakshak, my work has been appreciated immensely. She has been like a lucky charm for me."
The actor also shared how he first came to know about the award. Recalling the emotional moment, Mishra said he started receiving messages asking him to check the announcement on the Press Information Bureau (PIB) platform. He said the news became even more special because his late father had worked at the PIB.
"I started receiving a few messages. Someone told me, 'Check the PIB, the announcement will be made on YouTube.' Another person hinted that I should keep an eye on it because the National Awards were going to be announced. The most special part is that my father worked at the Press Information Bureau (PIB). He is no longer with us, but I received this news through the very office where he once served. That was a huge moment for me. I found out through PIB that I had been selected for the National Award. It was very emotional."
"My mother was in tears. To receive this news from my father's office made the moment even more emotional."
Speaking about what the honour means to him, Mishra said receiving an award from the country brings a greater sense of responsibility. He said the recognition motivates him to continue doing better work.
"The most important thing is that every award is special. But when you receive an award from the country, it feels like you have an even greater responsibility. It makes you feel that you have to continue delivering even better work."
'Bhakshak' was among several titles recognised at the 72nd National Film Awards. Other winners included Yami Gautam, who won the Best Actress in a Leading Role award for her performance in 'Article 370'. Kartik Aaryan and Mammootty were jointly honoured with the Best Actor in a Leading Role award for their performances in 'Chandu Champion' and 'Bramayugam', respectively. Meanwhile, 'Srikanth' won the Best Hindi Film award.
— ANI
Reader Comments
What a touching story about his father working at PIB! That connection makes this award truly special. It's heartwarming to see such genuine emotions from an actor who has given us so many memorable performances. Congratulations, Sanjay ji! 🎉
Honestly, I think Sanjay Mishra is one of the most underrated actors in Bollywood. His performance in 'Bhakshak' was so subtle yet powerful. I hope this award brings him more recognition and better roles. Bhumi deserves credit too for choosing such meaningful projects.
Great to see talent finally being recognised! But I wish the National Awards were more consistent - some years they ignore brilliant performances, and then suddenly they honour veterans like Sanjay ji. Anyway, better late than never! 👏
His father working at PIB and him receiving the news through that very office... kya baat hai! That's pure destiny. Acting is in his blood, but this emotional connection makes it even more special. Sanjay Mishra is a true artist and a wonderful human being. 🙏
As someone who loves Indian cinema, I'm so happy for Sanjay Mishra. He's one of those actors who makes every film better with his presence. 'Bhakshak' was a hard-hitting film and he brought so much depth to his character. Well deserved! 🌟
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