71st National Film Awards: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan SLAMS govt for giving award to 'The Kerala Story' in Best Cinematography category

The 71st National Film Awards were announced today in Delhi. Sudipto Sen's 'The Kerala Story' was given the Best Cinematography award. However, this move to announce the film as the winner was not received warmly by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. He expressed his frustration on his official X account against the decision made by the government.

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan mourns government as 'The Kerala Story' sweeps National Film Award

In his indignation against the action of the central government, he posted on X, "In honoring a film that disseminates sheer misinformation with clear intention to damage the reputation of Kerala and foment communal hatred, the #NationalFilmAwards jury has given sanctification to a narrative based in the Sangh Parivar's communalising politics."

The following is the statement he issued: "Kerala, which has ever been the symbol of harmony and resistance to communal forces, has been deeply hurt by this act. It is not Malayalis alone, but all those who believe in the cause of democracy must voice themselves on behalf of truth and constitutional values which we hold dear."

His arrival was met with a two-pronged response in the comments column.

Shah Rukh Khan, Vikrant Massey, Rani Mukerji, and some others sweep National Film Award

Rani Mukerji won Best Actress for 'Mrs. Chatterjee Vs. Norway,' Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey for Best Actor in 'Jawan' and '12th Fail.' Best Film (Hindi) is 'Kathal: A Jackfruit of Mystery.' Shilpa Rao won Best Female Playback Singer for 'Jawan.' Best Cinematography has gone to 'The Kerala Story.'

Vikrant Massey and Rani Mukerji's reaction to their massive win

Wirkant, in turn, said that it is his honor to accept the award along with an "icon like Shah Rukh Khan." Rani Mukerji, on the other hand, said that the victory has made her 3-decade long career worthwhile.

More on 'The Kerala Story'

The film is about women from Kerala who are converted to Islam and join the Islamic State. The film released in theaters in May 2023 and raked over Rs 300 crore at the box office.