Janaki Bodiwala dedicated the National Award to Team Vash, called the director to his God
Janaki Bodiwala won the Best Supporting Actor Award at the 71st National Film Awards for his impressive role in the Gujarati film ‘Vash’, marking a major milestone in his career. She shared the honor with Malayalam actor Urvashi and is expected to inspire more female-elevated stories in regional cinema.
In short
- Janaki Bodiwala won the 71st National Film Awards for ‘Vash’.
- He shared the award for ‘Ulojuku’ with Malayalam actor Urvashi
- Janaki described victory for her family as unexpected and emotional
Gujarati actor Janaki Bodiwala won the Best Supporting Actor Award for his performance at ‘Vash’ at the 71st National Film Awards, a film that is making waves in Gujarati cinema. She shares the award with acclaimed Malayalam actor Urvashi, who was recognized for her role in ‘Uluzuku’.
In a special interview with indiatoday.in, Janaki was still soaking in the joy of respect. “Everyone is very happy,” he said. He said, “The trailer of wash has been launched even today, and now we have this national award, it sounds like a wash day for all of us,” he said.
Asked if he had estimated victory, Janki responded with mistrust. “Oh God, not at all,” he said. “It was completely unpredictable.”
The news brought emotional moments at home. He said, “I told my father, and I could see his eyes well. He was trying to shed tears. My mother is above the moon, she is calling every person whom she knows,” she said.
To give Janaki a chance, his team, especially director Krishnadeva Yagnik, was in a hurry to give credit. “He is now like God for me now. I am grateful forever,” he said, visually emotional about his belief for such a powerful role.
The young star also hoped that this recognition would encourage more filmmakers to return women-intended stories. “The award is not just a personal milestone, it’s a big thing for the industry. I hope it opens the doors for more female-oriented stories and characters in Gujarati cinema,” she said.
Away from the success of ‘Satan’ earlier this year, Janaki believes that this victory is a turn. “People have started focusing on me as an actor, and now with this award, I hope to be a part of more meaningful and strong roles.”
Janki Bodiwala, which became popular in Gujarati cinema with films like ‘Chalo Day’ and ‘Vash’ (2023), impressed everyone by playing the same role in the Hindi remake ‘Shaitan’ (2024) with Ajay Devgan, R. Madhavan and Jyotika. He played the role of Jehvi, who was trapped with a girl black magic, and critics praised her powerful and emotional performance.
His role in the original Gujarati ‘Vash’ was a significant turn in his career. Janaki said that the character helped him remove him from his earlier image and showed his real acting skills.
