Setback for Malayalam films at national awards

Abhish K Bose Delhi

Directors from Malayalam film industry were lauded for their artistic exuberance and the vision they exuded till recently. But this year's national awards disappointed those who expected Malayalam films would get accolades. There was a time when the likes of Aravindan and Adoor Gopalakrishnan literally reigned the national scenario by their different and unique cinematic approaches.

Shaji N Karun, chairman of 2009 national award jury, told Hardnews: "There is no other reason than mediocrity. The films are not in the same league as compared to films in other languages." Shaji's comment is riveting in the context that Adoor's film, Oru Pennum Randanum, failed to put any fight. This raised eyebrows in the film fraternity as it is a rare to see Adoor's films not bagging any of the awards. KP Sethunath, noted film critic, says, "You cannot consider Adoor as a great creative artist like Satyajith Ray or Aravindan who attained creative exuberance through innovative narration. Adoor can be considered as only a master craftsman."

Adoor's films have depicted the decline of the feudal system in Kerala in the beginning of the 21st century. Sethunath adds that Adoor's cinema lacks the 'radical rupture' which is inevitable to consider a cinematic work as a classic.

However Ranjith's Thirakkada got this year's national award for the best Malayalam film. This came as a relief to Malayalam film admirers who expected more films to win awards. Ranjith, said that he is happy to receive the award and though he has been ignored in Kerala he was finally recognised nationally. Ranjith's reaction throws light into the existing reality. There exists a pervasive notion that only those who have influence and hold tend to get awards.