The buzz from the 71st National Film Awards is usually all about celebration. This year, though, it’s also about big questions. The latest round of winners has stirred up quite a debate. A prominent minister from Kerala has openly questioned the choices made by the jury. He believes a top South Indian actor was overlooked for the Best Actor prize.
Social media is buzzing with chatter about this. Many people are talking about how the Malayalam film ‘Aadujeevitham’, also known as ‘The Goat Life’, was completely ignored. This movie stars Prithviraj Sukumaran, and fans think his performance was truly amazing. Now, Vasudevan Sivankutty, who is Kerala’s General Education Minister, has added his voice to the growing objections online.
Sivankutty took to his social media on Sunday to share his thoughts. He made a clear statement that got everyone talking. “I like Shah Rukh Khan,” the politician wrote. “But in my opinion, Prithviraj Sukumaran’s acting in ‘Aadujeevitham’ is the best.” He also challenged the jury’s decision directly. He wondered aloud, “How could this film be completely ignored?” His words highlight a big point of contention for many viewers.
This isn’t the first time Sivankutty has spoken out about National Film Award decisions. He also strongly objected when Sudipto Sen won the Best Director award for the Bollywood film ‘The Kerala Story’. Sivankutty criticized the jury for that choice. He pointed out that the movie heavily featured the state of Kerala. It also highlighted sensitive issues like religious conversion, which became a big talking point.
‘Aadujeevitham’, directed by Blessy, did very well at the box office. Critics and audiences alike praised Prithviraj Sukumaran’s performance in the film. There was a strong feeling that this movie would pick up many awards. But that didn’t happen. This is why the Kerala minister, and many others, have clearly shown their disappointment with the recent National Film Awards selections.