National Award for Sonam Kapoor glorious validation of her talent: Shabana Azmi

Mumbai: Veteran actress Shabana Azmi has praised Sonam Kapoor as she got a special mention at the 64th National Film Awards for her portrayal of slain air hostess, Neerja Bhanot, in "Neerja".

The 66-year-old actress, who essayed the role of Bhanot's mother in the movie, said she is glad to see the "Raanjhanaa" star's growth as an artiste and that the prestigious honour will motivate her to do better work.

"Sonam is like my own bachcha. To see her growth as an artiste is a very fulfilling experience for me personally. The National award for Sonam is such a glorious validation of her talent.

"It just makes her so much more confident to do better work. I am very proud of her," Azmi said in a poster which was shared by Sonam on social media.

"This made my day year and everything! Thank you @AzmiShabana and thank you @RamKMadhvani for showing me this," Sonam wrote alongside the photo.

While, Madhvani, who directed the movie, said, "High praise from @AzmiShabana and well deserved @sonamakapoor. Very happy for you."

"Neerja" also won National Award for the best Hindi feature film.