"I am truly happy that my debut film has received such recognition," said Fazil Razak, who admitted to being at a loss for words and feeling quite overwhelmed. Fazil won the Best Debut Director award for Thadavu (The Sentence) at the 54th Kerala State Film Awards, announced on Friday. Alongside him, the film's lead actor, Beena R Chandran, shared the distinction of Best Actress with veteran actor Urvashi.

Fazil also noted that this win brings with it a heightened sense of responsibility, saying, "This recognition inspires me to continue making quality films." Crediting the achievement to a collective effort, the filmmaker added, "This success isn't just mine. Like me, it's the first feature film for nearly everyone involved in the project, and I dedicate this award to my cast and crew, who made the film possible. Many of them, including Beena (Chandran) teacher, have previously collaborated with me on my short films." Athiru and Pira, two short films directed by Fazil, were screened at the 2021 edition of the International Documentary and Short Film Festival of Kerala (IDSFFK).

Thadavu, which explored the solitary life of a middle-aged woman in North Kerala, premiered at the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) last year in the competition section. The film earned Fazil the Rajata Chakoram for Best Debut Director at the prestigious festival, while also winning the audience poll award for films in competition. On plans to bring the film to a wider audience, Fazil said, "We are planning to release Thadavu in theatres later this year."