In the recently announced 70th National Film Awards, Operation Java-fame Tharun Moorthy's sophomore film Saudi Vellakka was adjudged the Best Feature Film in Malayalam. The director, who's understandably thrilled, also admits that the award wasn't something he didn't expect. "People around me used to say this film would go places and earn several recognitions. So, yes, I wouldn't lie that the award wasn't completely unexpected. It was only the timing of it that surprised me," chuckles the director.
Saudi Vellakka, inspired by true incidents, is about an elderly woman who faces the consequences of India's judicial system where cases are drawn out for years. The film, which was also screened at the IFFI, led to discussions about the importance of speedy trials and the value of empathy in today's society. Stressing the need for such conversations, Tharun says, "I don't want my films to limit their reach to the Malayali audience alone. I always want my work to break the language barriers and be discussed widely."
The director also fondly remembers Saudi Gracy, a late artist, who was initially supposed to headline the film. Gracy, however, passed away due to a COVID-related illness. "I remember her every time the film gets recognition," adds the director, while also acknowledging the support of his producer Sandip Senan. "There aren't many producers today who are willing to risk on a project like this, but he sensed a potential in it and backed me." The director-producer duo is collaborating next for a Mohanlal-starrer, tentatively titled L 360, and Tharun is aware of the baggage of expectations. "I know the stakes are high, but I'm approaching it as sincerely as possible."
Besides the award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam, Saudi Vellakka also won Bombay Jayashri her maiden National award for Best Playback Singer (Female). She bagged the award for the song Chaayum Veyil, composed by debutant Palee Francis. A big fan of the veteran, Tharun says he wanted to include a song by her right from the film's conception. "This was much before the project even materialised. There was an ideal situation for a song in the film, and she graciously sang it. I'm glad that a newcomer like Palee is also recognised."