Jagathy receives the Sathyan Award

The prestigious Sathyan Memorial Award, instituted by the Kerala Cultural Forum in memory of late Sathyan, one of the most talented actors the Malayalam film industry ever had, has been presented to thespian Jagathy Sreekumar for his excellence in acting. The award consists of Rs. 10,001, certificate and a plaque designed by Aryanad Rajendran.

Kerala Minister Mullakkara Ratnakaran gave away the award during a function held on the 61st birth anniversary of the late actor on November 9. Many eminent personalities, including veteran Balachandra Menon, director Raja Senan, Sakthan Nadar M.L.A. and Kerala Cultaral Forum president J. Yesudas, also attended the function.

During his speech after receiving the award, Jagathy Sreekumar emphasized the various challenges of the Malayalam film industry today. He said Malayalam cinema is facing a pathetic situation today where the shooting of a film can be easily halted for two days if even a thermocole piece happens to fall on a superstar's leg. "I don't believe I was a success as hero. I'm sure, it won't be. But my wish is to make all specatators laugh even at the moment of my last breath," he added.

Jagathy, one of the best comedians in the history of Malayalam films, has handed over the prize money to Sree Chitra poor home for its charitable activities. Actor Madhu was the first recipient of the Sathyan Award. Other prominent winners are Mohanlal, Oduvil Unnikrishnan, Sukumari, Blessy, Sureshgopi and Dilip.