Stage has been set for the 59th National Film Awards function. The awards will be given on May 3 as it marks the release of the movie Raja Harishchandra. These awards are given by the Government of India to the on screen and off screen film personalities in recognition to their extra ordinary performance and contribution in the particular cinema. The films that were selected for national awards were announced earlier.

Usually the President will hand over the awards but this time Vice-President will present the awards since President is on a foreign tour. Bollywood actress Vidya Balan has won the National Award under the category best actress for her outstanding performance in Dirty Picture.  Dada Saheb Phalke Award this year will be given to the veteran film actor from Bengal film industry, Soumitra Chatterjee.

The actors and film personalities have already got the invitation to attent the award giving ceremony. (Phani)