71st National Film Awards for the year 2023 was announced in August 2025. Who was the director of the film titled “The First Film” which was awarded Swarna Kamal for Best Direction?

The Correct Answer: D — Piyush Thakur

Explanation:
At the 71st National Film Awards announced in August 2025, the film “The First Film” won the Swarna Kamal (Golden Lotus) for Best Direction in the non-feature film category. The award for Best Direction for this film was conferred on Piyush Thakur.

Information Booster:
The National Film Awards are among the most prestigious film honors in India, presented annually by the Government of India’s Directorate of Film Festivals. The Swarna Kamal (Golden Lotus) is awarded to top category winners, including Best Direction, and includes a medal and cash prize.

A — Meghna Gulzar: A noted director but was not associated with The First Film; she was recognized for other categories.

B — Narayan Singh: Not linked with the Best Direction award for this film.

C — Manish Saini: Directed another short film (Giddh The Scavenger), but did not receive Best Direction for The First Film.