Veteran filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker, known for his epic films like Lagaan, Swades, and Jodhaa Akbar, recently spoke about the much-debated National Awards win of The Kerala Story. Despite being embroiled in a political and social controversy, The Kerala Story bagged two National Awards, sparking mixed reactions across the country. Gowariker, a respected voice in Indian cinema, offered a balanced perspective on why the film was recognized by one of India’s most prestigious award platforms.
According to Gowariker, the National Awards have always been about honoring cinematic merit, regardless of external noise or controversies. He emphasized that the jury, which comprises filmmakers, critics, technicians, and scholars, evaluates films based on various artistic and technical parameters. "The selection process is thorough and independent. A film's political undertone or the public discourse around it is not supposed to influence the jury's decision. What matters is the craft, the performances, the storytelling impact, and how effectively a film communicates its subject," Gowariker explained.
The Kerala Story, directed by Sudipto Sen and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, narrates the story of women allegedly trafficked to join extremist organizations. The film was mired in controversy due to claims of exaggerated facts and political propaganda. It faced criticism for allegedly distorting real-life incidents, leading to debates over its intent and message. However, the film also found massive commercial success, resonating with a segment of audiences who lauded its bold narrative.
Addressing this duality, Gowariker said, "Cinema is a medium that reflects diverse perspectives. Whether one agrees with a film's viewpoint or not, its ability to provoke thought and initiate discussions cannot be overlooked. If the jury found merit in the storytelling, the performances, or the technical execution, it is within their rights to acknowledge it."
He further added that controversies have often accompanied films that push boundaries. "Every era has seen films that stir public emotions and invite polarized reactions. What’s important is that awards are given on cinematic grounds, not emotional or political sentiments. If we start disqualifying films based on controversies, we will lose out on important cinematic voices," he remarked.
Gowariker also highlighted that The Kerala Story winning awards does not imply endorsement of every claim made in the film but is rather a recognition of its cinematic aspects. "It’s crucial to separate the film as an artistic product from the noise surrounding it. Awards are about appreciating the art of filmmaking—direction, acting, screenplay, technical finesse—not necessarily the ideology or viewpoint," he stated.
In conclusion, Ashutosh Gowariker called for a mature understanding of cinema's role in society. "Films will always remain a reflection of varied narratives. As long as filmmakers have the freedom to tell stories, awards should be given based on craft and quality, not controversies."
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