Actor Aftab Shivdasani at the function in Mumbai on Thursday. Telegraph picture

Patna, May 19: Bollywood actors Aftab Shivdasani, Aditi Govitrikar and Manoj Tiwari today unveiled the trophy for the first Bhojpuri Citi Cine Award at Raheja Classique Club in Mumbai.

Actors and artistes of the Bhojpuri film industry will receive awards in 32 categories at a function at Lokhandwala Garden in Mumbai on June 2. Around 50 films have received nominations.

Superstars Ravi Kissen, Manoj Tiwari, Pawan Singh and Dinesh Lal are in the race for the Best Actor (male) category. Actresses Pakhi Hegde, Rai Chatterjee, Mona Lisa and Rinku Ghosh have been nominated the Best Actor (female) category.

Govitrikar praised the Bhojpuri film industry and said: “Such awards will boost the morale of Bhojpuri artistes. There are many awards for Hindi films but hardly anything for Bhojpuri cinema. I am grateful that I have been invited to unveil the trophy. I would love to work in Bhojpuri cinema if I get the opportunity.”

Aftab said Bhojpuri cinema is no more regional.

“Bhojpuri cinema is going places. I know that there is a great demand for Bhojpuri cinema in countries like Fiji and Mauritius. Stars like Ravi Kissen and Manoj Tiwari have followers all over the world,” said Aftab.

He added: “This is a really great moment for Bhojpuri cinema. It has come from the bottom to the top. Even famous Bollywood actors are acting in Bhojpuri cinema now. I would also like to work in Bhojpuri films.”

Film like Devra Bada Satawela, Satyameva Jayate, Bhojpuria Don, Daag, Saat Saheliya and Ran Bhumi are the top contenders to get the Best Film trophy.

Sources said Bollywood stars would also perform at the event.

Tiwari said: “I am delighted. I have been eagerly waiting for this day. I hope I get the Best Actor (male) award.

“The other actor, too, have done very good work. I wish them all the best. This award is the proof of how popular Bhojpuri cinema has become and what a bright future it has,” said the actor.

Kishan Khadariya, chief organiser and patron, Bhojpuri City Cine Award, told The Telegraph: “Though the award ceremony is being held in Mumbai, all the artistes of Bhojpuri cinema will be invited.”