Filmmaker Aashim Khetrapal received the "Mid-Day Spiritual Leader of the Year 2026" award on Monday at a ceremony in Mumbai, recognising his films on Shirdi Sai Baba and his social welfare initiatives, according to a statement from event organisers.
The recognition places Khetrapal among a small group of Indian filmmakers whose work bridges religious storytelling and community service, a combination organisers said reflects the award's intent to honour contributors to social and spiritual life beyond conventional religious leadership.
Maharashtra's first lady Amrita Fadnavis and state Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha presented the honour, the statement said. Bollywood actors Suniel Shetty, Sanjay Kapoor, Rajat Bedi and Abhimanyu Singh were among the attendees.
Two Decades of Sai Baba-Themed Storytelling
Khetrapal has spent close to two decades producing films and programmes centred on Shirdi's spiritual traditions, including the feature "Shirdi Sai Baba," which organisers credit with reaching a wide audience with themes of faith, patience and service. His body of work has focused on presenting spirituality as inseparable from humanitarian action, according to the statement.
Social Initiatives Beyond Cinema
Beyond filmmaking, Khetrapal has been involved in advocacy for persons with disabilities through campaigns including "Radiant Differently Abled Sports Awards" and "Grit and Glory." He is also developing an upcoming film, "Chal Jeet Le Ye Jahaan," centred on para-cricket athletes.
A separate project, "Children of God," addresses transgender rights and inclusion, and organisers describe it as part of Khetrapal's continuing engagement with marginalised communities.
His other cited activities include the care of abandoned and non-milk-producing cattle at shelters, distribution of more than 50,000 masks during the COVID-19 pandemic, and participation in the "Baton of Peace and Unity" campaign, which he has taken to the United States, South Africa and parts of Europe, according to the statement.
In His Own Words
Accepting the award, Khetrapal said the honour belonged collectively to people working in service of humanity. "My belief has always been that the greatest form of spirituality is humanity itself," he said, adding that even a single positive change in one person's life represents meaningful achievement, per the organisers' statement.
He said he intends to continue using film and social initiatives to highlight causes capable of driving positive change in society.
What's Next
Khetrapal's upcoming projects "Chal Jeet Le Ye Jahaan" and "Children of God" are yet to receive confirmed release dates. Further details on both films are expected closer to their launch.
