CHENNAI: Hyatt Regency glittered with a host of celebrities who were gathered to celebrate the tenth Women’s Exclusive Award Night on Sunday. Hosted by WE magazine, the event saw huge red carpets spread on the banquet hall, fashionistas sporting designer dresses and colourful blinding spotlights, recreating a scene right out of a Filmfare Award function.
“It’s been 10 years since we started WE magazine, and we’re extremely proud to have been able to bring the magazine this far,” said Sumati Srinivasan, editor, WE magazine.
The awards were given to people who had earned recognition in their respective fields through their talent and effort. “There are extraordinary people in this world and city who need to be recognised. I am glad that WE magazine has continued its tradition of identifying such individuals,” said Balaji, the host of the evening.
This year, 20 individuals were awarded. Actor Saranya Ponvannan, choreographer Sheriff, 15-year-old tennis champion Abinika, supermodel Pradhayini Sarvothaman and Karan, a special child who has been selected to represent India in the 2015 Paralympics in basketball, were among the awardees.
“As models, we are happy when we see our pictures behind buses and on walls. We are not usually recognised like actors. This award has definitely made me feel sky high. I can never forget this day,” said Pradhyayini.
Saranya was at her best as she managed to have the audience glued to their seats with her talk, rich with wit and humour. “I am very happy to get this award. Only hardwork and dedication can get you to great heights, I just want to tell the people out there to follow their dreams and stay focused,” she told the audience. Choreographer Sheriff spoke about his journey from being a dance competition contestant to what he is now. “This is the first time I’ve got an award as a choreographer. This only motivates me to do better,” said Sheriff, who has choreographed for movies like Raja Rani.
Actor Bobby Simha of Jigarthanda fame was awarded for his powerful maiden performance. He entertained the audience by teaching them sentences in ‘Gibberish’ language. Anchor duo Divyadarshini and Priyadarshini received awards for doing a good job behind the mike. Winners of last year including fashion designer Sidney SS, John Britto, Kamala Selvaraj and Poornima Bhagyaraj were also present at the ceremony. “The crowd was way better than the previous year’s, here’s hoping a better next year ceremony,” said Sumati.