Soumitra Chatterjee film wins National award

Kolkata: Veteran actor Soumitra Chatterjee was "pleasantly surprised" this morning when he came to know that Mayurakshi, the film where he essayed the role of a delusional man, has bagged the 65th National Award for best Bengali film. 

Mayurakshi, a film helmed by director Atanu Ghosh, tells an emotional story about a ailing man's relationship with his son.

"This award is recognition of director Atanu Ghosh's hard work. I feel happy for him," the 83-year old thespian said. Mr Ghosh, who has received critical appreciation in the past for his films Aborto and Abby Sen', said the national recognition would inspire producers to back films that deliver social messages.

"I have received prestigious awards in the past, including Filmfare East, but Mayurakshi completed the circle with this national honour."

Actor Prosenjit Chatterjee, who enacted the role of Soumitra Chatterjee's son in the film, credited the entire team of Mayurakshi for the award. 

"It is great and prestigious news to all the members of #Mayurakshi for getting the best Bengali film in 65th National Award. Thankful to Sekhar Kapoor for recommending the film to Cannes Film Festival..." Chatterjee tweeted. acclaimed filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, the chairperson of the central jury panel for the 65th National Film Awards, made the announcements on Friday in New Delhi.

Dada Saheb Phalke award receipient Soumitra Chatterjee has also won the National Award for the best male actor in 2008 for his role in Footsteps.