Actor Appukutty is obviously on cloud nine after winning the National Award for Azhagarsamiyin Kuthirai in the Best Supporting Actor category. But the award was clearly anticipated, he says. “I always expected I would get some award in some way because the movie was sent to many festivals. But I’m happy that it turned out to be the National Award itself,” he says.
When the National Awards were announced, Appukutty was at home but he couldn’t watch it on TV, thanks to the frequent powercuts. “Later, I confirmed with the director Suseenthiran and the producer about the award. After a few hours, I started getting calls wishing me for the same reason,” says Appukutty. Actor-director Thambi Ramaiah and actor Vishnu with whom he debuted in Vennila Kabadikuzhu are among others who conveyed their wishes over the phone.
The actor says he owes all his credits to director Suseenthiran and the production house Cloudnine Movies. “I thank Suseenthiran for having considered me for the role and the producer for coming forward to produce Azhagarsamiyin Kuthirai,” says Appukutty.
He is currently part of Kizhaku Paartha Veedu and Beemman Asthinapuram. He is also playing the lead in Mannaru directed by Jaishankar. “Mannaru is a complete comedy and will be a laugh-riot for the audiences,” says Appukutty, who is still searching for a suitable girl to marry. So, will we be seeing a new Appukutty post National Award recognition? “Not at all. I always want to utilise the opportunities that come my way. If we do the best in what we are offered, I think recognition will come on its own,” he smiles.