Sibi Malayil exposes politics at the National Awards.Renowned South director Sibi Malayil recently unveiled a startling revelation concerning the Mohanlal-starrer Paradesi, claiming it was allegedly excluded from the 2009 National Film Awards. Speaking at the inauguration of a cultural fest titled PT-Kalayum Kaalavum, a tribute to PTK Muhammed at the Sahitya Akademi, Malayil disclosed that he was urged to present the Best Actor Award to Shah Rukh Khan instead of Mohanlal, who starred in the movie directed by PT Kunju Muhammed.
Advocating for Paradesi in multiple categories, including Best Actor, Best Director, Best Lyrics, and Best Singer, Malayil expressed disappointment as the film received only a National Award in the Best Make-up category. During the event, he shared that the chairman suggested awarding Shah Rukh Khan to make the ceremony more grandiose, despite Khan not winning the National Award that year. Malayil staunchly believed that Mohanlal deserved the prestigious accolade for his exceptional performance in Paradesi.
Singer Sujatha, nominated for the Best Singer award for the song "Thattam Pidichu," also faced an unfortunate turn of events, as Malayil revealed she was pushed aside at the last moment. Malayil, along with cinematographer Sunny Joseph, representing Malayalees on the jury, passionately lobbied for Paradesi to receive recognition in various categories.
Additionally, Sibi Malayil disclosed an incident involving the festival director from North India, who, prior to the show, questioned the winner of the Best Singer award. Upon learning it was for Sujatha, he advocated for Shreya Ghoshal's song from Jab We Met and altered the award accordingly. Malayil acknowledged that these events occurred a long time ago, making it appropriate to disclose them now. In conclusion, he congratulated Malayalam filmmakers for their well-deserved National Awards.