The debate over the lack of a dedicated category for television actors at the National Film Awards has gained momentum, with several prominent voices from the television industry calling for long overdue recognition. Actress Rupali Ganguly has been among the first celebrities to publicly raise the issue, highlighting the significant contribution of television actors and creators to India’s entertainment landscape.
In an exclusive interaction with Zoom, Rupali Ganguly expressed disappointment over the absence of a National Award category for television performers. She pointed out that while national awards exist for film actors and even digital content creators, television professionals remain excluded despite the industry’s consistent output and demanding work schedule.
Rupali noted that the television industry operates round the clock and played a crucial role during the COVID pandemic. She highlighted that television production resumed earlier than many other sectors, often under strict safety protocols, including bio bubble arrangements. According to her, while film projects could be delayed or postponed, television content continued uninterrupted, ensuring daily entertainment for audiences across the country.
The discussion gained further traction after television producer Binaifer Kohli called for the inclusion of a television category at the National Film Awards. Actor and politician Ravi Kishan also voiced his support, stating that he intends to formally write to the ministry to pursue the matter. He emphasised that television actors deserve the same level of respect and recognition as their counterparts in cinema.
Zoom reached out to several television personalities, including Gaurav Chopra, Apurva Agnihotri, Rohan Mehra, and Chetan Hansraj, to understand how the introduction of a television category could impact the industry. Many agreed that such recognition would not only motivate actors but also raise the overall quality of storytelling and performances on television.
Industry insiders believe that a National Award category for television would help bridge the perceived gap between cinema and television. They argue that television reaches a far wider audience on a daily basis and plays a crucial role in shaping popular culture. Recognising excellence at the national level could also encourage producers and broadcasters to invest more in content quality, innovation, and meaningful storytelling.
Actors also pointed out that television performers often work under intense schedules, shooting long hours for extended periods. Despite this, their work is rarely acknowledged at prestigious award platforms beyond industry specific ceremonies. A national honour, they feel, would validate their efforts and elevate the status of television as a serious creative medium.
While no official announcement has been made regarding changes to the National Film Awards structure, the growing support from actors, producers, and public figures has brought the issue into sharper focus. Whether the demand leads to policy changes remains to be seen, but the conversation has clearly highlighted the evolving nature of India’s entertainment industry and the need for inclusive recognition across all formats.
