Ignored yet proud

Despite shrinking in numbers, Malayalam cinema yet again proved its mettle with ace actor Vijayaraghavan and actress Urvashi grabbing pivotal awards at the 2023 National Film Awards. Along with them, Mithun Murali (film: Pookalam) and Mohandas (film: 2018) were selected as the best editor and art director, while M.K. Ramadas's 'Nekkal - Chronicle of the Paddy man' about Cheruvayal Raman won a special mention from the jury in the non-feature category.

Malayalees Sachin Sudhakaran and Hariharan Muraleedharan won the award for the sound design of the Hindi film 'Animal', while Malayali M.R. Rajakrishnan received a special mention for the re-recording of the same film. Malayali Harikrishnan also won an award for his narration in the film 'The Sacred Jack'. 'Ullozhukku' directed by Christo Tomy was judged as the best Malayalam film.

Vijayaraghavan was awarded the Best Supporting Actor award for his unforgettable performance as an elderly Ittoop in the film "Pookalam". It is a shame that the actor missed out on the best actor award, despite delivering a once-in-a-lifetime performance in the film. It is reported that Vijayraghavan’s name was abuzz even in the final round, but the final verdict did not go in his favour. It is also unsettling to accept the fact that this is Vijayraghavan’s first-ever national award, despite delivering back-to-back stunning performances in films for the past 50 years.

It is disappointing that actress Urvashi, who played the role of Leelamma in the film "Ullozhukku", was robbed of a best actress award.

There is no doubt about the prowess of actress Urvashi as she is often celebrated as a superstar, a rare laurel for a female actor. She might be one among the greats of yesteryear, still performing in the medium. Urvashi has received the National Award for Best Supporting Actress for 'Ullozhukku'. Pradeep Nair, the only member from Kerala in the final jury for the National Film Awards, actively intervened to recall four Malayalam films, including the film 2018, which was rejected by the primary jury. Out of these, '2018' won the award. The National Film Awards jury, headed by director Ashutosh Gowariker, adopted a policy of promoting both commercial cinema and films with artistic value.

‘12th fail’ made by Vidhu Vinod Chopra was selected as the best film. The movie, which tells the story of a young man who makes his dream of civil service a reality through hard work, helped Vikrant Massey grab the best actor award. Sudeepto Sen being crowned as the best director for the film 'Kerala Story' caused an uproar in Kerala. It is the responsibility of the jury to ensure that the decision-making process of the National Film Awards does not lead to political controversies.