Ashutosh Gowariker Explains Why ‘The Kerala Story’ Was Given National Recognition

The announcement of The Kerala Story winning two National Awards sparked conversations across the film industry and public alike. The film, known for stirring strong reactions due to its subject, was awarded for Best Makeup and Special Jury Mention. Now, jury chairman Ashutosh Gowariker has explained why the panel felt the film deserved recognition, calling it a challenging but important project.

A Sensitive Topic Handled with Clarity

Gowariker, a respected filmmaker himself, acknowledged that The Kerala Story dealt with an extremely difficult and controversial subject. The jury, he said, didn’t base their decision on political noise or popular opinion. Instead, they looked at how effectively the film communicated its narrative and how powerfully it impacted audiences on an emotional level.

He clarified that the jury appreciated the technical and narrative approach of the filmmakers, especially given how complex the theme was to handle without sensationalism. The Special Jury Mention, he added, was not just for the content, but for the courage and effort put into telling such a story.

Why the Recognition Matters

For many in the industry, especially in Tier 2 cities where cinema often mirrors social realities, the National Awards still carry credibility. Gowariker’s explanation helps clarify that the jury is not endorsing or opposing the ideology of a film, but is recognizing the effort behind its creation and impact.

Even the Best Makeup award wasn’t random. It was specifically noted for realistically transforming characters and aiding the storytelling in a way that didn’t distract or feel overdone.

Debate, But No Denial of Effort

Of course, The Kerala Story remains a debated film. While it was a box office success in several parts of India, it was also criticised for factual inaccuracies and polarising themes. Gowariker didn’t dismiss the criticism but pointed out that the film sparked national dialogue—and that, in a way, is a role cinema is meant to play.

Conclusion

By publicly addressing the decision, Ashutosh Gowariker has brought a layer of transparency to a process that often raises eyebrows. Love it or disagree with it, The Kerala Story left a mark. And according to the jury, that impact—handled with technical precision and narrative clarity—is what earned it national recognition.