National Awards: Kollywood strikes gold

'Aaranya Kaandam' and 'Azhgagarsamiyin Kuthirai' walked away with a few titles; while 'Vaagai Sooda Vaa' was presented with the Best Regional Film award.

Suseenthiran's 'Azhgagarsamiyin Kuthirai' bagged awards for popular entertainment and best supporting actor. Actor Appukutty's portrayal of a young man earning his livelihood by ferrying loads on his horse in little village in Periyakulam, earned him the best supporting actor's trophy.

A thrilled Appukutty, credited his success to the director and unit, while acknowledging the award as a recognition of his hard work. "I was not expecting any award. For, I just did what my director wanted me to. The award makes me more responsible. I will carry a lot of expectations and from here on, I have to live up to it", he said.

'Vagai Sooda Vaa', a period film that harps on the need for education, directed by A Sargunam, was adjudged the best regional language film; while Thiayagarajan Kumararajah's maiden venture 'Aaranya Kaandam' won two awards - best film by a debutant director and best editing (K L Praveen).

Humbled by the honour, Sargunam said, "It is recognition for an honest and a sincere attempt. We made no compromise of any sort while shooting the film. It has emboldened me to give better movies in the coming years. At this happy juncture, I wish to extend my sincere thanks to my artistes, my producers, crew, and technicians".

The winners will be officially awarded at a ceremony to be held on May 3, 2012. Feature film award winning names were affirmed by Rohini Hattangady, Chairperson of Feature Films Jury (Central Panel).

Ramesh Sharma, Chairperson of Non-Feature films jury and Vijaya Mulay, who chaired the jury on the Best Writing on Cinema, announced the names of other award winners earlier today.

Source: Filmy South