National Film Awards to skip Gujarat next year, rotated across India

The National Film Awards, India's most prestigious cinema honour, will be hosted across multiple tourism destinations nationwide rather than being confined to a single state, according to clarifications from the ministry of information and broadcasting.

The decision means Gujarat will not serve as the host for next year's ceremony, contrary to earlier expectations. Officials have indicated that rotating the prestigious awards event to different locations across India forms part of a broader strategy to promote tourism while celebrating the country's film industry.

Ashwini Vaishnaw, a senior government official, defended the new approach, noting that organising the National Film Awards across various tourist hotspots allows the nation to showcase its cultural and heritage destinations while honouring cinematic excellence. The move reflects the government's intent to use high-profile cultural events as platforms for promoting domestic tourism.

The National Film Awards ceremony, held annually to recognise outstanding achievements in Indian cinema, has traditionally been a major event drawing filmmakers, actors, and media attention. By diversifying venue locations, organisers aim to decentralise the celebration of film culture while supporting tourism development in different regions.

Details regarding which specific destinations will host the upcoming awards ceremony have not yet been publicly announced.