Ever since ‘Vazhakku En 18/9’ opened to rave reviews from critics, it was predicted that the film would win awards in the country and perhaps, even in the international circuit. As expected, the film’s make-up artist Raja was awarded the National Film Award for Best Makeup Artist. It has also been judged as the Best Tamil film.
“I still cannot believe it. The credit for the honour goes to the director Balaji Sakthivel. I am honoured to receive this award which even the veteran make up artists in the industry couldn't win,” said Raja. Even as the modest Raja seemed stunned on hearing the news, his teary-eyed wife said, “He expected one for Kadhal and Azhagarsamiyin Kudhirai. I am so happy that he got it this time.”
Balaji Sakthivel, who said that he never expected the award, thanked the producer for giving him the space and creative freedom. “The producer funded this film without even asking for the story,” he said. Talking about the film’s focus on the structural violence against women in the Tamil society, Balaji Sakthivel said that he merely tried to be objective in his analysis of the society.
The producer of the film, Lingusamy, said the award for ‘Vazhakku En 18/9’ was one he would love to keep on his showcase.
While saying that he had expected the film to win awards, Lingusamy also noted that the film was enjoyed by people as well. The film had also won the Best film award at the prestigious South Asian Film Festival held in Paris recently.
