New Delhi: President Pratibha Patil gave away the 53rd National Film Awards for the year 2005, and also presented far-famed film producer Shyam Benegal with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award at the dazzling ceremonial occasion.

While lecturing at the function, Patil emphasized on the uniqueness of the films, adding up that country’s rich history, traditions and background presents a strong base for the novelty and uniqueness of the Indian cinema.

Patil made special references of Benegal’s role to Indian films, and Master Sai Kumar of Hyderabad, who got the Best Child Artiste Awards for his appealing portrayal of a nine-year-old boy with goals beyond his dreams.

“Indian cinema can play a crucial role in upholding the cherished values of secularism, equality and democracy. Cinema can also contribute in improving the status of women in society, eradicating social evils and inspiring its audience to be patriotic and committed to the welfare of the nation and to humanity at large,” added Mrs. Patil.

Superstar Amitabh Bachchan was rewarded with the best Actor award for his scintillating performance in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Black'.

Sarika was presented the best actress award for Rahul Dholakia's film on Gujarat riots, 'Parzania'.

The Swarna Kamal for the best film was given to Bengali movie 'Kaalpurush', directed by Budhadeb Dasgupta.

Whereas Rakesh Omprakash Meyhra's 'Rang De Basanti' got the best popular film award offering healthy entertainment, director Pradeep Sarkar bagged the Indira Gandhi Award for best debut film 'Parineeta'.

Malayalam movie 'Daivanamathil' was honored with the Nargis Dutt Award for the best film on national integration.