"I am blessed", says Esha Deol as her production 'Ek Duaa' wins at the National Awards 2023

Internationally acclaimed filmmaker Ram Kamal Mukherjee won the coveted National Film Award for his short film Ek Duaa at the 69th National Film Award. Produced by Bollywood star Esha Deol, who also worked as lead cast in Mukherjee's film. "I am extremely happy to receive this prestigious National Award for my film Ek Duaa. It was an overwhelming journey for me, and such recognition encourages me to work on subjects that I believe in," says Mukherjee, who is currently working on post-production of his magnum opus Binodiini Ekti Natir Upakhyan and also writing a screenplay for his next Draupadi. 

Ek Duaa deals with social ordeals and issues that women often face. This is a subject that will make people think and probably change their mentality. The film fetched many International awards, and finally, the highest honour from the Government of India makes this film memorable. "I am blessed," says Esha Deol, who produced the film. "When Ram Kamal narrated the story, I was certain that I would make this film and this would be my first film as a producer." 

Ram Kamal, who is currently working on two Bengali films in Kolkata, says, "Phone has been ringing since the announcement. I am touched by the kind of congratulatory texts and voice messages I am receiving from Mumbai, Hyderabad and Kolkata. I am glad that jury members felt this film deserves a special place amongst bigwig winners!"

Ek Duaa was actor Esha Deol's first venture into production and received critical acclaim back upon its release.