71st National Film Awards: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan SLAMS government for honouring 'The Kerala Story' in Best Cinematography category

The 71st National Film Awards were announced today in Delhi. Sudipto Sen's 'The Kerala Story' bagged the honour in the Best Cinematography category. However, this decision to recognise the film with an award didn't go well with the Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan. He took to his official X account to slam the selection made by the government.Expressing his discontent with the central government's decision, he posted on X, "By honouring a film that spreads blatant misinformation with the clear intent of tarnishing Kerala’s image and sowing seeds of communal hatred, the jury of the #NationalFilmAwards has lent legitimacy to a narrative rooted in the divisive ideology of the Sangh Parivar."The statement further read, "Kerala, a land that has always stood as a beacon of harmony and resistance against communal forces, has been gravely insulted by this decision. It is not just Malayalis, but everyone who believes in democracy must raise their voice in defence of truth and the constitutional values we hold dear."His post mixed reactions in the comment section.Rani Mukerji was named the Best Actress for her film 'Mrs. Chatterjee Vs. Norway,' while Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey won Best Actor for 'Jawan' and '12th Fail,' respectively. 'Kathal: A Jackfruit of Mystery' bagged the Best Film (Hindi) honour. In the meantime, Shilpa Rao earned the title of Best Female Playback Singer for 'Jawan.' In the Best Cinematography category, 'The Kerala Story' has received recognition.See more: 71st National Film Awards complete winners list: Shah Rukh Khan, Vikrant Massey share 'Best Actor', Rani Mukerji wins 'Best Actress,' 'Kathal' wins Best Hindi FilmVirkant, in his statement, shared that it is his privilege to share the award with an "icon like Shah Rukh Khan." On the other hand, Rani Mukerji stated that the win has validated her 3-decade career.The story revolves around a group of Kerala women who are forced to convert to Islam and join the Islamic State. The film was released in theatres in May 2023 and earned over Rs 300 crore at the box office.