GUWAHATI: Benjamin Daimary, who portrayed a transgender in Prakash Deka directorial "Jonaki Porua" (Fireflies) received the Jury's special mention in the feature films category of the 67th National Film Awards this year.
Actor Benjamin Daimary, who identifies as gay in real life, has become the first Assamese person from the LGBTQ community to win this honour at the national platform.
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If am not wrong, history created in 67th National Film Awards. Benjamin became the 1st LGBTQ actor to win a National Award (he won a jury spl mention) for his beautiful portrayal of a transgender in Prakash Deka's Jonaki Porua (Fireflies)," film critiz Utpal Borpojari posted on Twitter.
Responding to Bopujari's tweet, Hansal Mehta tweeted, "I absolutely loved the performance by Benjamin in the film. It was heartbreaking. Saw it on jury duty at Kashish. We unanimously awarded his performance."
Assamese film 'Jonaki Porua' which is based on an LGBTQ theme features Benjamin Daimary in the lead role.
Speaking to Assamese media about the recognition, Benjamin said, "When I saw my name on the list, I got goosebumps. I have never thought nor would I have ever of receiving such an honour."
The list of awardees of the National Film Awards was announced on Monday, March 22.
The National Award for the best Assamese film (Rajat Kamal Award) has been bagged by Chandra Mudoi's 'Ronuwa-Who Never Surrender'.
Bollywood actor Kangana Ranaut has won the best actress award while late Sushant Singh Rajput's last theatrical release, Chhichhore directed by Nitesh Tiwari won the best Hindi film award.
