National Film Awards 2023: Jai Bhim, Karnan, Sarpatta Paramarai snubbed, fans protest ‘Joke is on the country’

The year 2021 was otherwise recognised for being dominated by movies from the South; in fact, streaming platforms played a major role in making films from the South easily accessible to audiences across the country. This was the year in which Dhanush delivered an acclaimed performance in the Tamil film Karnan, and Fahadh Faasil won plaudits for his work in the Malayalam films Joji and Malik.

While the thriller Nayattu bagged the Best Original Screenplay honour, it was noted that neither of its three leads — Kunchako Boban, Joju George and Nimisha Sajayan — were awarded for their work. Speaking of Sajayan, her widely acclaimed performance in the film The Great Indian Kitchen also went unnoticed by the jury, led by filmmaker Ketan Mehta. Malayalam film producer G Suresh Kumar, who was also a member of the jury, revealed in an interview with Asianet News that eight Malayalam-language films made it to the final round of consideration.

The Telugu superhit RRR was also seemingly snubbed in the major categories, but picked up honours in technical categories and was named the Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. Tamil contenders Jai Bhim, Sarpatta Parambarai, and Master went home completely empty-handed.

Here are some reactions on Twitter (formerly X) about films from the South being snubbed at this year’s National Film Awards.

The National Film Awards will be presented at a later date by the President.

From the homepage

‘Advising tourists to stay put until rescued’: As flood toll crosses 14, Mamata opens 24/7 control room, to visit Darjeeling tomorrow

IND-W vs PAK-W LIVE Cricket Score, Women’s World Cup 2025: India 247 all out (50 overs) vs Pakistan in Colombo

Bihar Assembly polls to be held before November 22: Election Commission