Veteran actor Paresh Rawal, who won the National Award for Woh Chokri and Sir in 1993, has made a striking revelation about the lobbying culture that exists within India’s most respected film honors.
In a candid conversation with Raj Shamani on his podcast, Rawal admitted that even the National Awards are not completely free from external influence — though he maintains that the level of lobbying is far lower compared to other awards.
“Even the National Awards Aren’t Completely Clean”
Discussing the credibility of awards, Paresh Rawal said he never placed too much importance on trophies.
“Award to mujhe to pata hi nahi hai. Ek baat main ye bhi bolun, National Award mein thoda bahut lobbying hota hoga. Utna nahi hai jitna baaki ke awards mein hota hai,” he said.
He added that while other awards may often be driven by industry politics and marketing, the National Awards still hold a level of prestige and respect unmatched by others.
“Baaki ke awards ki to baat hi mat karo. National Award to National Award hai, reputed hai,” he added.
‘Lobbying Happens at the Oscars Too’
Paresh Rawal didn’t limit his remarks to Indian award systems. Drawing parallels with the West, he noted that lobbying is not unique to Bollywood.
“Lobbying to Oscar Awards mein bhi hoti hai,” he said, pointing out that even Hollywood’s most celebrated honors are influenced by campaigns, connections, and promotions.
He explained that the process often involves extensive networking, hosting lavish parties, and strategically influencing jury members.
“Haan bhaiya, Raj ki picture hai. Chalo jitne Academy ke members hain sabko whip up kiya jaata hai,” he said, describing how efforts are made to sway opinions and build support for particular films.
“Real Recognition Comes from Directors and Writers”
Despite his experience and acclaim, Paresh Rawal said he doesn’t chase awards. For him, true validation comes from those who work closely with him.
“The only appreciation that matters to me is from my directors and writers. That’s the real reward. My urge stops there,” he shared, adding that creative acknowledgment means far more than any trophy.
Rawal emphasized that the essence of cinema lies in honesty and storytelling, not in chasing recognition.
Paresh Rawal’s Recent Work
On the work front, Paresh Rawal was last seen playing a tour guide in The Taj Story, directed by Tushar Amrish Goel. The film follows a guide whose life turns upside down after a viral video questioning the Taj Mahal’s history leads to his dismissal. Determined to fight back, he takes the matter to court, challenging historical narratives.
The actor also appeared in Thamma, a horror comedy starring Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna, directed by Aditya Sarpotdar and produced by Dinesh Vijan and Amar Kaushik under Maddock Films.
Up next, Paresh Rawal will reprise his beloved roles in Hera Pheri 3, along with Bhooth Bangla and Welcome To The Jungle, adding to his versatile filmography.
Final Words
Candid and fearless as ever, Paresh Rawal’s remarks shed light on an uncomfortable truth — that even the most prestigious film honors are not entirely immune to influence.
But for the veteran actor, awards are just symbols; the real reward, he says, lies in respect from collaborators and the love of the audience — things that can’t be lobbied for.
