Actor Manikandan, who has bagged the Kalaimamani Award for the year 2023, is elated on winning the award along with artists of various other fields. Notably, the actor's Good Night hit theatres in 2023, while his directorial debut, Narai Ezhuthum Suyasaritham, hit theatres in 2022. He also had the release of Sila Nerangalil Sila Manidhargal, in which he starred as well as served as a writer.
Speaking exclusively to Cinema Express, Manikandan, who is currently busy dubbing for the Tamil version of Rishab Shetty's Kantara: Chapter 1, says, "The Kalaimamani Award, coming from the Tamil Nadu government, is a truly significant honour. What makes it even more special is receiving it alongside such a diverse group of artists, sculptors, theatre performers, folk artists, and veterans like KJ Yesudas sir and many esteemed writers. I feel blessed to be counted among them."
However, Manikandan takes this award as a responsibility more than a milestone. "I don’t see awards as rewards for the work we’ve done. To me, they serve as reminders of the responsibility we carry towards our art and our field. This recognition will constantly push me to create more meaningful and responsible films," he shares.
On what his next milestone is, he explains, "For me, an award is only a byproduct of our work. We never create with the intention of winning one. I cannot make a film just to bag the Kalaimamani Award. Even after this milestone, I intend to continue my career with the same pace and focus, staying calm and composed while thinking about the kinds of stories that really need to reach the audience."
The multi-hyphenate actor says that his efforts towards making meaningful and impactful films will continue. "Cinema today is constantly engaging with conversations about stories and issues that deserve representation. Winning this award only strengthens that dialogue and ensures it is taken more seriously. There are countless valuable ideas being discussed right now, and our focus must be on how they take shape as films," he signs off.
