Yami Gautam believes her National Film Award for Best Actress, earned for ‘Article 370’, has brought a new sense of accountability to her work. At the trailer launch of ‘Nayi Naveli’, the actress said the recognition has left her with a stronger “sense of responsibility” as an artist.

Yami Gautam on why the National Award is a true validation

Talking about her National Award win, Yami said, “I do feel that sense of responsibility even more.” She noted that she has always sought out roles that excite her as an actor and, at the same time, connect with and excite audiences. Describing the honour as “really, really big,” she said, “I think National Film Award is a really, really big honour and I think it’s a very true validation for any artist.”The actress acknowledged that winning the prestigious award has altered things for her as an artist. “I will be lying if I say nothing changed after receiving the award,” she said, explaining that the recognition has made her more mindful of the responsibility an actor carries. She also vowed to keep giving her best and striving to win the audience’s love.Thinking back on her path from a small town to the national spotlight, Yami said, “There is so much for me to learn.” She made it clear that the award hasn’t changed her focus, which is still on learning and evolving as an artist. When asked if the National Award has pushed her to aim for an Oscar, she kept her ambitions to herself. “Sapne sirf aapko aur aapke man ko pata hone chahiye kya hain, baaki main zyada bolti nahi hoon. Main apne kaam mein vishwas karti hoon,” she said. (Only you and your mind should know what your dreams are; beyond that, I don’t say much. I believe in my work)

Yami Gautam on staying grounded and the value of humility

Yami feels that strong work needs no announcement, and that an artist shouldn’t have to keep talking about their accomplishments. Speaking about keeping her feet on the ground despite her success, she said, “Pair bilkul zameen par hi hain aur zameen se jitney jude rahenge utna acha rahega.”(Keep your feet firmly planted on the ground; the more connected you remain to the ground, the better). The actress also shared the most important lesson she has learnt from her seniors: success will come in time, but humility is something that always remains within one’s own control.

Yami Gautam’s win at the 72nd National Film Awards

At the 72nd National Film Awards, Yami Gautam took home the Best Actress (Female) honour for playing NIA officer Zooni Haksar in ‘Article 370’. The film also bagged Best Feature Film and Best Music Direction (Songs), with her husband Aditya Dhar accepting the Best Feature Film award. Yami described the win as the “biggest validation” for an artiste, while Aditya appeared teary-eyed as she received her award from President Droupadi Murmu.