
The conversation around giving television its due at India’s most prestigious awards has picked up pace, and actor-turned-politician Ravi Kishan is now lending his voice to the cause.
Echoing recent remarks by television producer Binaifer Kohli, Ravi Kishan has said he plans to formally write to the ministry in charge of the National Awards, urging it to recognise television with its own category.
For Ravi Kishan, the issue is deeply personal. Having spent decades working across films, television and now streaming platforms, he believes national-level recognition could push the small screen to aim higher.
He feels that an official category at the National Awards would not only acknowledge hard work but also encourage better storytelling and stronger performances across the board.
In an interview with HTCity, Ravi Kishan explained his next steps clearly. He said, "I will write to the ministry to create a category for TV shows in the National Film Awards. This will enhance the quality of content and performances on television, creating pressure on them to deliver. It can be implemented for different regional languages as well."
He also pointed out that while television already has several award shows, none carry the same weight as a National Award. "While there are several awards for television in the country, receiving a National Award offers a different prestige," Ravi Kishan added.
According to him, such recognition could inspire creators to tell more meaningful stories, especially shows that reflect India’s history, culture and social realities. He suggested that television could either be honoured through a separate national ceremony or be included within the existing National Film Awards, allowing both mediums to be celebrated on the same platform.
This is not the first time Ravi Kishan has raised concerns related to the entertainment industry. Earlier, he had introduced a private member’s bill addressing the struggles actors face later in life, drawing attention to the lack of long-term security in the profession.
With 35 years of experience spanning cinema, fiction shows, reality television and web series, Ravi Kishan says he feels a responsibility to speak up. “I will keep raising issues and do my best,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to change.
On the work front, Ravi Kishan will soon be seen in the second season of Mamla Legal Hai. He also has several films lined up, including Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain! Fun on the Run, Dhamaal 4, Mirzapur: The Film, and Maa Behan, co-starring Madhuri Dixit and Triptii Dimri.
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