Dhanush reacts to Raayan National Award criticism: 'There were definitely better films'

Dhanush (Pic/AFP)

The 72nd National Film Awards saw Dhanush receive a Special Mention for Captain Miller, while Raayan bagged the award for Best Tamil Film. The decision sparked criticism, with many claiming Meiyazhagan and Maharaja were more deserving. Dhanush has now reacted to the criticism.

Dhanush on criticism for winning National Award for Raayan

Dhanush spoke about the controversy during an event on Sunday, where he opened up about the mixed reactions following the announcement of the National Film Awards. Speaking about the criticism, he said, "For Raayan, I got a National Film Award. That year, there were definitely better films than that one. The fans of those films expressed their love, and I fully respect them."

During the interaction, Dhanush also looked back at several acclaimed films from his career that did not win National Awards despite receiving widespread appreciation. He recalled, "Now, Adhu Oru Kana Kaalam was released a very long time ago. They said I would definitely win an award for it. I was so young that I had hoped for it too, but I didn't. Then there's Pudhupettai... You all told me I'd win again, but I didn't." He also mentioned films like Mayakkam Enna, Vada Chennai, Karnan, Maryan, and Raanjhanaa.

Addressing those criticising his wins, Dhanush requested, "Some things simply fall into place on their own, no matter how hard you try; that is exactly how it happened for me. I got the opportunity. Regardless of how the film itself turned out, the effort I put into it was genuine. As a Tamilian, I have received two more National Awards; don't brush this aside, celebrate it."

He then brought up Ajith Kumar's dialogue and added, "Just like our Thala Ajith Sir said, no one can defeat you until you admit defeat yourself. What do you say, baby? If you're bad, I'm your dad."

Dhanush on winning the National Award

Taking to his X timeline to share a note of gratitude soon after the 72nd National Film Awards were announced, Dhanush said, "I'm truly humbled and overwhelmed to have received the National Award for Best Regional Film for Raayan and the National Award (Special Mention - Best Actor) for Captain Miller. My heartfelt gratitude to the esteemed National Film Awards jury and the selection committee."