Why Does Actor Suriya Deserve the National Award?

Has the movie Moonram Pirai captured your heart? Have you noticed why actor Kamal Haasan received the National Award for his performance in the climactic scene of that film? Similarly, Suriya received the National Award for his performance in a sequence where he was begging for a flight ticket at the airport. Just one powerful scene can decide whether an actor is worthy of an award, and that's exactly what happened in Suriya's case.

Unsung Heroes and Arbitrary Awards

However, many people believe that awards, whether from the National level to the prestigious Oscars, are often given based on the arbitrary whims of the selection panel. Sometimes, these awards are also influenced by factors such as lobbying, loyalty, or regional politics. This means that sometimes an actor who is clearly deserving does not receive the award, while others might be given it simply because they were in the right place at the right time.

For example, in 1971, the best actor award known as the "Bharat" award was given to M.G.Ramachandran for his performance in the Tamil film Rickshawkaran, despite actor Rajesh Khanna delivering an equally, if not more, stellar performance in the film Anand. This demonstrates that the criteria for awarding such accolades can be unpredictable and biased. This is concerning for actors like Suriya, who have missed out on the award despite delivering excellent performances over several years.

Revisiting Suriya's Talented Performances

Over the years, Suriya has continually showcased his immense range and depth as an actor through various roles. His performance in the movie Aakasha Hemadhar (Telugu version of Soorarai Pottru) was remarkable, and his versatility was evident in movies such as S/O Suriya, Vaaranam Aayiram, Guajini, Shiva Putrudu, and Pitaamagan. In each film, he demonstrated his ability to portray a wide array of characters, and his talent could not have been overshadowed in these acclaimed works.

However, it is in the movie Moonram Pirai where Suriya's performance is most noteworthy. In a particularly powerful sequence, he plays an army officer who is desperately trying to return to his family. His father is critically ill, and he must seek sympathy and support. He tries to bow before a fellow traveler, but receives no response. Finally, airport police intervene to address the perceived nuisance, completely unaware of the gravitas of the situation. This single scene is a testament to Suriya's acting prowess and the emotions it evokes. The crowd in the theater must have been stunned and speechless, witnessing this poignant moment.

An Analysis of the Award-Winning Scene

The scene where Suriya portrays an army officer facing a personal crisis at the airport is a prime example of his exceptional talent. His nuanced performance captures the essence of desperation, empathy, and the human struggle. He conveys the urgency and importance of the moment through subtle gestures and expressions, making the audience feel the weight of his character's situation.

Moreover, Suriya's portrayal of an old woman donating her savings to support his airline company (Deccan Airlines/ Air Deccan) is equally impressive. He strikes a balance between melodrama and realism, creating a believable and emotional scene. The way he manages his performance in each scene, whether with his wife or in melodramatic roles, demonstrates his versatility and the depth of his talent.

Conclusion and Reflection

It is clear that Suriya deserves the National Award for his exceptional performance in Moonram Pirai. His ability to bring out such a powerful and engaging performance in a single scene is a testament to his acting skills. However, it is also important to reflect on the arbitrary nature of awards and the need for fair and transparent criteria to ensure that deserving actors like Suriya are recognized and rewarded for their talents.