Urvashi Questions National Awards Snub to Prithviraj’s Aadujeevitham
Chennai : National Award winning actor Urvashi has voiced her disappointment over the recently announced 71st National Film Awards, particularly the jury’s decision to exclude director Blessy’s Aadujeevitham, starring Prithviraj Sukumaran.
In a candid interview with The News Minute, Urvashi expressed disbelief at the film being overlooked. “How could they ignore Aadujeevitham?” she asked. “An actor goes through immense physical and emotional transformation to portray Najeeb’s suffering. It deserved recognition.”
The exclusion has sparked debate in the industry, especially given that 2025 also saw Prithviraj’s directorial venture L2 Empuraan attract controversy. The film was criticised for scenes perceived to depict the 2002 Gujarat riots, prompting the makers to voluntarily edit over two minutes of footage and alter a character’s name after right wing backlash.
Urvashi also raised concerns about her own award for Best Supporting Actress in Ullozhukku, pointing out that she shared equal screen space with Parvathy Thiruvothu. “If lead roles are being placed in the supporting category, then what remains for genuine supporting actors?” she asked. “Where is the motivation for them to refine their craft?”
She further criticised the practice of splitting awards. “First place should mean one person. Sharing it makes it meaningless.”
Referring to veteran actor Vijayaraghavan receiving the Best Supporting Actor award for Pookkalam, despite playing the central character, she said, “What a performance that was. Will he get such a role again? There must be room for re evaluation, just as in examinations.”
Urvashi reflected on the 53rd National Awards, where she remained silent despite facing a similar situation. “Back then, Sarika had returned with Parzania after a personal struggle. I chose not to protest. But this time, I must speak up for those who follow,” she said.
The actor clarified that she is not politically affiliated and speaks independently. “I pay my taxes, I do not owe anything to any party, and I am not afraid. Someone has to bell the cat.”
She also commended actors Fahadh Faasil and Parvathy for refusing awards in 2018 under controversial circumstances, stating that such decisions reflect the need for dialogue and fairness in the awards system.
“The National Awards must be about talent alone,” she said. “When awards are given, they should leave artists feeling proud, not uncertain or hurt. The jury must not underestimate southern cinema or assume we will quietly accept whatever is given.”
Her remarks have reignited conversations around regional representation, credibility, and the need for reform in the national awards framework.
