By News18,Satyaki Baidya

Copyright news18

The National Film Awards, the most prestigious accolades in Indian cinema, are being presented. Organised annually by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, this ceremony honours the best films and artists.
At the 71st National Film Awards ceremony, many prominent artists, including Mohanlal, Shah Rukh Khan, and Vikrant Massey, were honoured with awards in various categories.
Established in 1954, the National Film Awards are held annually in Delhi. They recognise the best stories not only in Hindi cinema but also Tamil, Malayalam, Bengali, and other regional cinemas.
These awards encourage not only artists but also film technicians, editors, and others involved in filmmaking. Two types of medals are awarded across several categories.
Gold Medal vs Silver Medal: What Do They Mean?
The National Film Awards are divided into two categories: the Golden Lotus and the Silver Lotus. The Golden Lotus is the highest honour, awarded for Best Feature Film, Best Director, or Best Popular Film. It symbolises excellence.
The Silver Lotus is awarded for other categories such as Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Music, or Editing.
Award Prizes And Perks
Every recipient of a National Film Award receives an official certificate signed by the President, certifying their achievement. Some awards also include a shawl or plaque, which holds cultural significance.
For example, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award includes a shawl and a medallion along with the Golden Lotus. A cash prize is also awarded, varying depending on the medal and category.
How Much Is The Prize?
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting also awards a cash prize with the National Film Award. The Golden Lotus categories carry prize money of approximately Rs 300,000, while the Silver Lotus categories carry prize money of Rs 200,000.
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award, based on lifetime achievement, offers Rs 1.5 million along with the award, an increase from Rs 1 million. If the award is shared, it is split equally.
Prize Money By Award Category

Best Feature Film
Golden Lotus
Rs 3,00,000

Best Director
Golden Lotus
Rs 3,00,000

Best Feature Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment
Golden Lotus
Rs 3,00,000

Best Children’s Film
Golden Lotus
Rs 3,00,000

Best Film (Animation, VFX, Gaming)
Golden Lotus
Rs 3,00,000

Best Debut Film (Director)
Golden Lotus
Rs 3,00,000

Best Actor (Leading Role)
Silver Lotus
Rs 2,00,000

Best Actress (Leading Role)
Silver Lotus
Rs 2,00,000

Best Child Artist
Silver Lotus
Rs 2,00,000

Best Supporting Actor/Actress
Silver Lotus
Rs 2,00,000

Best Child Artist
Silver Lotus
Rs 2,00,000

Best Playback Singer (Male/Female)
Silver Lotus
Rs 2,00,000

Best Cinematography, Music Direction
Silver Lotus
Rs 2,00,000

Dadasaheb Phalke Award (Lifetime Achievement)

Rs 15,00,000