The 2024 Kerala State Film Awards have ignited controversy after the jury, chaired by actor Prakash Raj, announced that no awards would be given in the categories of Best Children's Film and Best Child Actor. This decision has been met with criticism, most notably from child actor Deva Nandha, who took to social media to voice her disappointment.
Deva Nandha, known for her role in Malikappuram, expressed her strong disapproval of the jury's decision. In a post on Instagram managed by her parents, she shared a clip of Prakash Raj speaking at the press conference following the awards announcement, juxtaposed with scenes from the film Gu (2024), in which she starred alongside Saiju Kurup. Her caption read, "You can close your eyes to kids, but don't say it's all dark here". She argued that children are integral to society and deserve recognition for their contributions to cinema. She also contended that denying awards to children would discourage young talent rather than inspire better children's films.
Deva Nandha highlighted the performances of children in several 2024 Malayalam films, including Sthanarthi Sreekuttan, Gu, Phoenix, and ARM, arguing that these young actors deserved recognition. She further stated, "It's not by denying awards to two children that one should try to say more children's films should be made. If you had given awards to two children, it would have become an inspiration for many others". She also expressed her resentment towards Prakash Raj, stating that he "overlooked children's rights" despite acknowledging their importance in society.
Prakash Raj defended the jury's decision, stating that while six films were submitted for the Best Children's Film category, none met the jury's standards. He added that the jury "did not find a single film or attempt to make a children's film" that was worthy of recognition. He emphasized that merely casting children does not constitute genuine children's cinema and that filmmakers must authentically portray children's perspectives.
Kerala's Minister for Cultural Affairs, Saji Cherian, echoed Prakash Raj's views, stating that the submitted films did not meet the necessary standards. However, he also acknowledged the issue and assured that further discussions would be held. He clarified that while four films were initially considered, only two remained in the final selection, but the jury felt they lacked the required creative elements.
The controversy has drawn criticism from filmmakers as well. Vinesh Viswanath, the director of Sthanarthi Sreekuttan, shared a poster of the child artists in his movie on social media with the caption, "In a world of no worthy entries for Best Child Actor, they stand tall". Srikanth E.G., director of School Chale Hum, also expressed frustration. Filmmakers and supporters of children's cinema argue that withholding awards discourages the production of future films in this genre, which needs encouragement and support.
The decision has sparked a broader debate about the state of children's cinema in Kerala and the criteria used to evaluate it. Critics argue that several films featuring strong child performances and child-centric themes were overlooked. They suggest that the jury's decision undermines the efforts and self-esteem of those who attempt to make films for children. The controversy raises questions about whether the jury's approach will truly benefit young performers and children's filmmaking in the industry.
