Fatima Sana Shaikh celebrates Sam Bahadur’s big win at the 71st National Film Awards. The film clinched three prestigious honours, including Best Feature Film. Fatima, who played Indira Gandhi, calls it a moment of honour. She also praised co-star R. Madhavan from her upcoming film Aap Jaisa Koi.
Actress Fatima Sana Shaikh is basking in joy and pride as her recent film Sam Bahadur swept three top honours at the 71st National Film Awards. Directed by Meghna Gulzar, the biographical drama not only resonated with audiences but also received critical acclaim, culminating in accolades that have now cemented its place in cinematic history.
The film, which chronicles the inspiring life and legacy of India’s first Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, bagged three awards—Best Feature Film on National, Social and Environmental Values, Best Makeup, and Best Costume Design. Fatima, who portrayed former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, shared her elation and gratitude through a heartfelt note on social media.
“Huge congratulations to the team of Sam Bahadur for bagging three incredible National Film Awards!! It’s truly a moment of honour,” she wrote.
Expressing her personal pride in being associated with the film, she added, “I feel glad to be a part of the film and play the role of Smt. Indira Gandhi. Working with our director, Meghna Gulzar, was a dream, and it was truly a one-of-a-kind experience for me.”
A Star-Studded and Authentic Cinematic Tribute
Produced by Ronnie Screwvala under the banner of RSVP Movies, Sam Bahadur brought together a stellar ensemble cast. The titular role of Sam Manekshaw was essayed by Vicky Kaushal, who received wide praise for his nuanced performance. Sanya Malhotra played Sam’s wife, Silloo Manekshaw, while the film also featured Neeraj Kabi as Jawaharlal Nehru, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub as Gen. Yahya Khan, Elango Kumaravel as V.K. Krishna Menon, Vivek Bahl as Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, and Sanjay Roy as Zakir Husain.
The film hit theatres on December 1, 2023, and went on to achieve commercial success with a reported lifetime collection of ₹128.17 crore at the box office. The accolades from the 71st National Film Awards further affirm the film’s impact and resonance.
Praise for Co-Star R. Madhavan
Apart from celebrating Sam Bahadur’s win, Fatima also took a moment to shower praise on her Aap Jaisa Koi co-star R. Madhavan. Sharing behind-the-scenes pictures from the romantic comedy, Fatima affectionately referred to him as her “most favourite co-actor” and “best guy ever.”
She captioned the post:
“Maddy & Fatty… My most favourite co-actor!! Thank you for being so kind, generous, and for making this entire shoot feel easy and fun.”
Fatima’s warm note also included a personal touch, thanking Madhavan for treating her to “perfect filter coffees” and for his mother’s special “sambar masala recipe.”
Fatima’s Career on the Rise
Known for her powerful debut in Dangal and subsequent standout performances, Fatima Sana Shaikh continues to build a versatile and impactful filmography. With Sam Bahadur, she has not only taken on the challenging role of a political icon but also earned praise for her restrained yet convincing portrayal.
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As Fatima looks forward to her upcoming releases, including Aap Jaisa Koi, her journey appears to be marked by thoughtful choices and consistent growth.
