Veteran Malayalam actress Urvashi has sparked a significant conversation in the Indian film industry following her win for Best Supporting Actress at the 71st National Film Awards for her role as Leelamma in Ullozhukku (2024). While expressing gratitude for the recognition, Urvashi boldly questioned the jury’s decision to categorize her performance as supporting rather than lead, igniting a broader discussion on transparency and fairness in award selections.

A Stellar Performance in Ullozhukku

In Ullozhukku, directed by Christo Tomy, Urvashi delivers a powerful performance as Leelamma, a mother navigating grief and hidden truths alongside her daughter-in-law, Anju, played by Parvathy Thiruvothu. The film, lauded for its emotional depth and storytelling, also won Best Malayalam Film at the awards. Urvashi’s portrayal was central to the narrative, which made her placement in the supporting category surprising to many, including the actress herself. In an interview with Manorama News, she reflected on the role’s emotional and physical demands, noting it as one of the most challenging characters she has portrayed in her four-decade career.

Questioning the Jury’s Criteria

Urvashi’s critique of the National Film Awards jury was candid and pointed. She questioned the logic behind labeling her role as supporting when both she and Parvathy were contenders for Best Actress. “Is there any standard scale for acting? Or is it that after a certain age, this is all you’ll get?” she asked, highlighting potential biases in the selection process. Urvashi emphasized that awards should evoke pride, not be passively accepted like “pension money.” Her remarks call for greater transparency from both the central and state governments regarding the criteria used to evaluate performances.

A Pattern of Controversy

This is not the first time Urvashi has faced such a categorization. In 2006, she won Best Supporting Actress for Achuvinte Amma, despite playing the lead role. She recalled how the late actress Saroja Devi, a jury member at the time, argued that Urvashi deserved the Best Actress award, but the decision was swayed by others. Urvashi’s consistent experiences with such decisions underline her frustration with what she perceives as “politics” in award processes. She has made it clear that her focus remains on meaningful cinema rather than lobbying for accolades.

Advocating for Malayalam Cinema

Urvashi’s comments extend beyond her personal experience, addressing broader issues of representation for Malayalam cinema. She urged Union Minister Suresh Gopi to investigate the awards process and advocate for fair recognition of the industry. Her sentiments echo those of others in the Malayalam film community, including Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who criticized the jury’s decision to honor The Kerala Story, citing its divisive narrative.

A Legacy of Excellence

Despite the controversy, Urvashi’s legacy as a versatile actress remains unchallenged. With six Kerala State Film Awards and now two National Awards for Best Supporting Actress, she continues to be a trailblazer in Indian cinema. Her call for clarity in award decisions resonates with artists and audiences alike, sparking hope for a more transparent and equitable future in the industry.

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