era of sophisticated and clean movies that are popular both in India and abroad. Then there are socials like Mehndi Wale Hath that highlight burning social issues. Another popular flick of this genre was Main Ma Punjab Di, starring Shivendra Mahal and Manjit Kular. Such introspective movies indicate sensitivity and new awareness among our filmmakers.

But why does Punjabi cinema have such a poor image?

This is probably because of a lack of awareness the cinema’s achievements and pedigree. If one looks at the National Award-winning movies, one realises the range of genres in which Punjabi movies have made an impact.

Can one safely presume that Punjabi film industry’s dark days are over? It would be premature to say so. Although one notices the growing number of film directors (see box – Big bosses) making excellent movies, some of the leading lights interviewed for this piece say that the industry is facing so many problems that one cannot be too optimistic about its future. However there’s a silver lining. The NRI factor may prove to be a life-saver for the industry, and stepping in of big production houses like Tips as well as the upcoming film city in the region may well catapult it to the forefront of regional cinema.

National Award winners

Nanak Naam Jahaaz Hai and Satluj De Kande bagged the national award given as certificate of merit.

Best feature film awards were won by Chann Pardesi, Madhi Da Diva, Kachehari, Main Ma Punjab Di, Shaheed-E-Mohabbat, Shaheed Udham Singh and Des Hoya Pardes.

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