Kutty Srank is part of history now: Karun

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Malayalam director Shaji N Karun, whose film Kutty Srank won the national award for the best film today, said that the film has become a part of history with the honour.

Karun said he never expected an award, but was happy that it received national recognition, even though the film was totally rejected at the state level when state film awards were announced.

"I am glad my film received the National award. I succeeded in taking the film to the desired level. I am very happy that Kutty Srank became part of history like my first film Piravi', he said.

Karun said the award was also an honour to the Malayalam film industry.

However, Karun felt sad that actor Mamooty, who essayed the lead role in film was not considered for best actor award.

Oscar award winner Resul Pookutty said he was happy over over getting the award for best sound designer for the film Pazhasi Raja. Pookutty, who won the Oscar for Slumdog Millionaire, said, "when the recognition comes through my own language, the sweetness is more".

Hariharan, director of film Pazashi Raja which also got the best Malayalam film award, said he the national recognition made him happy.

"I thought the film would get more awards, including best actor award for Mammooty," Hariharan said.

The 11 national awards to Malayalam films has come at a time when the Malayalam film industry is passing through a difficult phase.

Kerala Chalachitra Acadamy Chairman K R Mohanan said that awards received by malayalam films in various categories indicate the rejuvenation of Malayalam film.

"I am very happy that Malayalam films got recognition in different fields both in technical and other sides," he added.