The 64th National Award
has become a topic of discussion since yesterday, as it has left a lot of
people amused with its winners.
Filmmaker Priyadarshan who was the head of the
Jury is being questioned about his decision of picking Akshay Kumar as the Best
Actor for Rustom. A general opinion among the people and the industry is that
since Akshay has worked with Priyadarshan in umpteen numbers of films (Hera Pheri, Garam Masala,
Bhagam Bhaag, Bhool Bhulaiya, De Dana Dan and Khatta Meetha) and shares a great
bond with him, his decision was biased.
Image Source: twitter/akshaykumar
However, Priyadarshan has his clarification in place. While talking to PTI Priyadarshan said, “I have heard of all that and I will answer it in a simple way. When Ramesh Sippy was jury head last year Amitabh Bachchan won. When Prakash Jha was head of the jury, Ajay Devgn won. So no one questioned at that time. So why all these questions are cropping up today,”
The filmmaker also clarified that Akshay’s performance in
Rustom and Airlift were considered by the jury during the selection process.
However, as only the name of one film could be mentioned, the list featured the
courtroom drama Rustom.
Image Source: usmalayalees
“Akshay was given the best actor on the basis of his performance in two films — Airlift and Rustom. It was the jury’s decision. One performance was dramatic and one was realistic. But according to the rule book, only one film can be mentioned and Rustom was mentioned in the list. But the award recognises his performance in both the movies.” Priyadarshan concluded.
Meanwhile Akshay Kumar is still shocked himself. After posting a candid picture
with Sonam Kapoor yesterday after the declaration of the National Awards,
Akshay told a leading daily that he felt it was a late April Fool’s joke. He
said, “It is great news. National Film awards are the most prestigious awards
in the country. It is a moment of pride for sure. The first reaction, honestly,
was if this was a late April Fool’s joke (laughs)! Actually, I am still trying
to process this win, it is a mix of many emotions - surprise, happiness and,
most prominently, gratitude to the jury, makers of the film, my parents and of
course the beloved fans.”
Talking about the news where his National Award is being
questioned by people, he said, “Itna keh sakta hun mai ki ye award bhi maine
imandari se jita hai. Maine aaj tak cheating nahi ki. Neither have I ever made
a call to anyone to win an award nor have given money or done favours for it.”
Thumbnail Image Source: cochintalkies & Manav Manglani