Article 370 was one of the biggest winners at the 72nd National Film Awards, earning multiple honours and giving its cast and makers a moment of immense pride. Actor Yami Gautam, who received the National Award for Best Actress for her performance in the political thriller, shared an emotional note reflecting on her 14-year journey in cinema. Producer and Yami’s husband Aditya Dhar also celebrated the film’s remarkable achievement, calling the recognition a deeply humbling moment. Both expressed gratitude to the jury, the audience and the entire team behind the critically acclaimed film.
Yami Gautam calls the award a lifelong honour
Following the announcement of the National Film Awards , took to social media to share an emotional message about what the recognition meant to her. “Every journey has a moment that reminds you why you never gave up. Today is that moment for me. Receiving the National Award for Article 370 is an honour I will cherish for the rest of my life.”
Reflecting on her career, Yami said she has always remained committed to her craft and allowed her work to define her journey. The actress stated, “For fourteen years, I have simply tried to stay true to my craft, work with honesty and let my performances speak for themselves. This honour feels like the culmination of a journey filled with hope, perseverance, resilience and an unwavering love for cinema.” The actor revealed that Article 370 held a special place in her heart because it was also a home production. She wrote that every challenge and every conversation on set was driven by honesty and conviction.
Yami’s post on X
Yami thanked the National Award jury, director, cast, crew and audiences for embracing the film. She also expressed gratitude to her family, team and well-wishers, saying their support helped her continue even during difficult phases of her career. Concluding her note, Yami dedicated the honour to dreamers everywhere be penning, “This award is not the end of a dream, it is the beginning of a greater responsibility. To keep growing, to keep taking risks and to keep telling stories that matter. Dreams do come true but only when passion refuses to give up. This one’s for every dreamer who is still waiting for their moment. Never stop believing.”
Yami Gautam in a scene from Article 370
Aditya Dhar celebrates three National Awards
Producer Aditya Dhar also penned a heartfelt note after secured three National Awards. He said the team never made the film with awards in mind but instead focused on telling an honest story. The Dhurandhar director wrote, “When we set out to make this film, we weren’t chasing accolades. We were driven by a conviction, to tell a story with honesty, courage and sincerity. To see that journey resonate with audiences across the country and now be recognised with the highest honour in Indian cinema, is truly overwhelming.”
Aditya acknowledged director Aditya Suhas Jambhale for shaping the film’s vision while also praising Yami Gautam Dhar, Priyamani, composer Shashwat Sachdev and the entire cast and crew. He also thanked Jio Studios and Jyoti Deshpande for believing in the project and supporting meaningful cinema. Reflecting on the significance of the recognition, Aditya wrote that awards celebrate achievements but also remind filmmakers of the responsibility to continue creating impactful stories. Ending his note with gratitude, he wrote, “From the bottom of my heart… THANK YOU. This honour belongs to all of us.”
Aditya Dhar’s post
The winners of the 72nd National Film Awards were announced on July 18, 2026, recognising the finest feature and non-feature films, along with outstanding performances from across Indian cinema. The awards honoured films certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) between January 1 and December 31, 2024. Mammootty and Kartik Aaryan shared the Best Actor award, while Yami Gautam won Best Actress for Article 370, which was also named Best Feature Film.