MUMBAI MIRROR (May 6, 2016)

Neeraj Ghaywan and Varun Grover, winners of the National Awards for Best Film by a Debutant Director (Masaan) and Best Lyrics ("Moh Moh Ke Dhage" from Sharat Katariya's Dum Laga Ke Haisha) respectively, revealed shortly after the ceremony on Tuesday that they are donating the prize money towards relief work for distressed farmers in drought hit Maharashtra.

"Out of the Rs 1.25 lakh prize money, I will donate Rs 50,000. Varun will give away his entire amount, which will bring the total to Rs 1 lakh," said Neeraj. "We will share the details of the organisation we finalise on and everybody can donate directly if they wish. Sab milke karenge toh accha hi hoge," added Varun.

Actor-emcee Gaurav Kapur, comedian Tanmay Bhat and singer Sona Mohapatra quickly followed suit announcing that they would join the initiative as well. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis gave them a shoutout on the social media thanking them for their support.

Neeraj admits that even though it is a small contribution, his intention is to draw public attention to the agrarian crisis. "I hope people are inspired to contribute. At least, they should become aware of the issue," the filmmaker added.