Gujarat government signs MoU to host Filmfare Awards in state for second time

Gujarat will once again host the Filmfare Awards. An MoU in this regard was signed in Gandhinagar in the presence of Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, filmmaker Karan Johar, actor Vikrant Massey, and other dignitaries on Thursday.

At the event, the first edition of Filmfare magazine from 1952 was presented to CM Patel, and the Filmfare trophy — popularly known as ‘The Black Lady’ — was also unveiled.

Speaking at the ceremony, Massey shared his personal connection with the state, saying, “Gujarat has been my home. I lived in Vadodara in 2007 and 2008. Last year, I got my first Filmfare Award here in Gujarat.”

Karan Johar highlighted the emotional value of the award, recalling his first win and adding, “Filmfare goes beyond just being an award. Last year, I had the privilege of hosting it here in Gujarat, and we are back for the 70th year because last time, the experience was so embracing and special.”

CM Bhupendra Patel emphasised the state government’s efforts to boost cinematic tourism, stating, “The government has implemented a cinematic tourism policy to promote films and Gujarat. The state is now emerging as a hub for the film industry and a major centre of economic activity.”