From Chhattisgarh’s Folk Tradition to National Honour: 'RamNami' Wins Best Documentary

Chhattisgarh’s distinctive Ramnami tradition has received national recognition with Ram-Nami, a documentary based on the community’s unique cultural identity and traditions, winning the Best Documentary honour at the 72nd National Film Awards.

Culture Minister Rajesh Agrawal congratulated director Bharatbala Ganapathy, producer BBP Studio Virtual Bharat Private Limited and the entire team behind the film. He said the recognition is a matter of pride for Chhattisgarh and goes beyond the honour given to a documentary. According to him, it brings national attention to the state’s folk traditions, cultural values, spiritual heritage and traditions preserved across generations.

Agrawal said the Ramnami community represents an important part of Chhattisgarh’s cultural diversity. Its faith, customs and way of life have contributed to the state’s rich folk culture. The documentary has taken this distinctive tradition to a wider audience across the country.

A folk tradition reaches the national stage

Appreciating the work of director Bharatbala Ganapathy and the entire team, Agrawal said bringing a folk tradition to a national platform through sensitive and engaging storytelling is a significant achievement. He also acknowledged the contribution of the artists, technical experts, producer and other associates involved in the film.

He said Chhattisgarh has a diverse cultural heritage that includes folk arts, songs and dances, tribal traditions, religious practices and customs passed down through generations. Together, these traditions form an important part of the state’s cultural identity.

The recognition for Ram-Nami, he said, will help take the story of Chhattisgarh’s cultural traditions to audiences across India and the world.

Government focusing on preservation of cultural heritage

Agrawal said the state government is working to preserve, promote and showcase Chhattisgarh’s folk and cultural heritage on a wider platform. He expressed hope that the national recognition for Ram-Nami will encourage folk artists, writers, filmmakers and other cultural practitioners to present their traditions and heritage through creative mediums.

The 72nd National Film Awards, announced for films released in 2024, selected Ram-Nami as the Best Documentary in Hindi. The film has been produced by BBP Studio Virtual Bharat Private Limited and directed by Bharatbala Ganapathy.

Agrawal extended his congratulations and best wishes to Ganapathy and the entire team, describing the award as an important milestone in bringing greater national recognition to Chhattisgarh’s cultural identity.