The 9th Assam State Film Awards ceremony was held on February 16 at the Sri Sri Damodardeva International Auditorium in Guwahati, honouring outstanding Assamese films from 2020 and 2021. The event brought together prominent figures from Assam’s cultural and administrative spheres, turning the city into the centre of celebration for the state’s film industry.
Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya attended as the chief guest, while Cultural Affairs Minister Bimal Borah was also present, alongside filmmakers, actors, and industry veterans from across the state.
The 9th Assam State Film Awards were held on February 16 in Guwahati, recognising Assamese films from 2020 and 2021. ‘Balconit Bhogowan’ won the Best Film award, while director Biswajit Bora secured Best Direction, marking a major achievement for Assamese cinema celebrated in the city’s cultural hub.
Guwahati Hosts State’s Biggest Film Recognition Event
Held at the Sri Sri Damodardeva International Auditorium, the ceremony reaffirmed Guwahati’s role as the cultural capital of Assam. The city once again became the focal point for the state’s film fraternity, as artists, technicians and administrators gathered to honour cinematic excellence.
The awards aim to recognise creative achievements in Assamese cinema while encouraging filmmakers to continue producing culturally rooted narratives.
‘Balconit Bhogowan’ Dominates the Awards
The prestigious Rupkonwar Jyoti Prasad Agarwala Award for Best Film was presented to Balconit Bhogowan (God on the Balcony).
Its director, Biswajit Bora, also received the Brojen Barua Award for Best Direction, marking a double recognition for the film at this year’s ceremony.
The film’s strong showing at the Guwahati-hosted awards has reinforced its standing within contemporary Assamese cinema.
Major Award Winners
Key honours announced at the ceremony included:
- Best Film: Balconit Bhogowan (Rupkonwar Jyoti Prasad Agarwala Award)
- Best Direction: Biswajit Bora (Balconit Bhogowan) – Brojen Barua Award
- Best Cinematography: Pradip Daimary for Semkhor (Nalin Dowerah Award)
- Best Actor: Harish Khanna for Balconit Bhogowan (Natasurjya Phani Sarma Award)
- Best Actress: Mandakini Goswami for Montur Montoh (Aideo Handique Award)
The awards reflect the diversity of storytelling and technical excellence within Assam’s film industry.
Why This Matters for Guwahati
Guwahati remains the operational and creative hub of Assamese cinema, housing production houses, film societies, theatres, and cultural institutions. Hosting the State Film Awards further strengthens the city’s position as the centre of artistic recognition and dialogue.
Events of this scale also provide opportunities for networking, collaboration, and future projects within the local film ecosystem.
For young filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts in Guwahati, the ceremony serves as both recognition and inspiration.
Looking Ahead
With films from 2020 and 2021 being recognised this year, the awards also highlight the resilience of Assamese cinema during challenging periods.
The 9th edition of the Assam State Film Awards has concluded in Guwahati, but its impact is expected to continue through renewed creative momentum and upcoming film projects across the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where were the 9th Assam State Film Awards held?
The ceremony took place at the Sri Sri Damodardeva International Auditorium in Guwahati on February 16.
Which film won Best Film?
Balconit Bhogowan won the Rupkonwar Jyoti Prasad Agarwala Award for Best Film.
Who won Best Director?
Biswajit Bora won the Brojen Barua Award for Best Direction for Balconit Bhogowan.
