"Saaransh" turned 30 Sunday.
"I have handed over my award for 'Saaransh' to Hansal because he makes films with the same passion with which I made films like 'Saaransh', 'Arth' and 'Zakhm'," said Bhatt at the special screening of Hansal's directorial "Citylights".
"It is only because of that passion due to which a filmmaker can make a film fearlessly without getting affected by the market diktats. I expressed my feelings fearlessly in my films and that is why my films are remembered even today. I feel the kind of cinema Hansal is making today will be seen even after thirty years from now.
"It is a token of appreciation from my side. I salute his spirit," added Bhatt.
Bhatt is supporting "Citylights". Set to release May 30, the film stars Rajkumar Rao and newcomer Patralekha.