Elated to win with Suriya for Best Actor: Ajay Devgn shares happiness on his third National Film Awards

Ajay Devgn won his third National Film Award at the 68th edition of the prestigious awards. The actor won for his performance in Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior, in which he plays the titular role. In a statement, Ajay expressed his happiness at being bestowed with the honour. Interestingly, the actor shared the award with Suriya, who won it for his stupendous performance in Soorarai Pottru.

Talking about his big win, Ajay stated, "I’m elated to win the Best Actor Award for Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior at the 68th National Awards, along with Suriya, who won for Soorarai Pottru. I thank everyone, most of all my creative team, the audience, and my fans. I also express my gratitude to my parents and the Almighty for their blessings. Congratulations to all the other winners."

Meanwhile, Ajay had previously won a National Film Award in the Best Actor category. The actor won the first time for his role in Mahesh Bhatt's Zakhm, which was released in 1998.

The second time, the actor was honoured for his performance as Bhagat Singh in The Legend of Bhagat Singh, which hit the big screens in 2002.

Meanwhile, Ajay also shared his happiness on Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior for winning Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. The actor-filmmaker said, "As the producer of Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior, it gives me immense joy to receive an honour at the 68th National Film Awards for the Best Film that has provided wholesome entertainment. Tanhaji was exactly that. It is a good story of friendship, loyalty, family values, and sacrifice. It has strong national sentiments, super VFX, and a holistic approach to entertainment. I must share the honour with my director, Om Raut, my co-producers, T-Series, and my co-actors. Most of all, I thank my creative team, who have contributed handsomely to making this a blockbuster and now a National Award winner."

On January 10, 2020, Tanhaji was released in India in both 3D and standard formats. While historical inaccuracies and nationalistic portrayals drew criticism, the movie got favourable reviews, with an appreciation for Ajay and Saif Ali Khan's acting as well as the visual effects, cinematography, action sequences, art direction, soundtrack, score, and editing.

The film is set in the 17th century and revolves around Tanaji's attempts to retake the Kondhana citadel after it is passed on to the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, who gives it to his faithful guard, Udaybhan Singh Rathore.

Tanhaji features Neha Sharma, Sharad Kelkar, and Luke Kenny, in addition to Ajay Devgn in the lead role and Saif Ali Khan and Kajol in significant supporting roles.