Govt. helping film industry: CM

By Our Staff Reporter

CHENNAI, JAN. 12. The state film awards for the year 1999 were distributed today, at a star-studded event, where the Best Actor awardee, Mr. Rajnikant, created a mild sensation with veiled comments on the political scenario in Tamil Nadu.

``We must never underestimate the enemy. Instead, we will have to gather our resources and fortify ourselves to meet the opposition,'' the actor said, to rousing applause. The actor said he believed that the function was a chance for him to make his first public speech after a long while. Though Mr. Rajnikant was slotted to make only an `acceptance' speech, expectations ran high that he would make statements with ``political import''.

Judging by the applause he received, he did not disappoint his fans. Even as the Chief Minister, Mr. M. Karunanidhi, presided over the stage, Mr. Rajnikant said, ``Every nation has a destiny - a political destiny. Even Tamil Nadu has one. Only certain people are destined to rule at certain times. Those who are aware of this remain restrained. Those who are not, go around spreading rumours and making predictions.'' Earlier, he complimented the Chief Minister for his tireless efforts in securing the release of Karnataka matinee idol, Dr. Rajkumar, ``despite several efforts by select persons in the media to sabotage the endeavour''.

After distributing the awards, Mr. Karunanidhi said he had reduced the entertainment tax from 40 per cent to 25 per cent, responding to demands made by those in the industry. The charge for outdoor shooting in Government land was reduced to aid film makers, he added. Low budget movies with social messages were provided subsidies and even ``tax free'' status in theatres throughout the state.

The first Nadigar Thilagam Sivaji Award was given to actor Mr. Kamal Hasan. The Arignar Anna Award went to director, Mr. J. Mahendran, Kalaivanar Award to Mr. Kaka Radhakrishnan, Raja Sando Award to director, Mr. Shanker, MGR Award to actor Mr. Vijay, Kavignar Kannadasan Award to poet Kamakodian and the Thiagaraja Bagavathar Award to Mr. S.S. Rajendran.

The movie `Padayappa' lifted five awards: best movie, best actor, special category best actress (Ms. Ramya Krishnan), make-up artist (Ms. Sundaramoorthy) and best male playback singer (Mr. Srinivas). Ms. Simran was adjudged best actress, while Mr. Vikram was best actor in the special category. Mr. Vairamuthu was best lyricist and Ms. S. Janaki best female playback singer. Master Vicky took home the best child artist award.

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