Malayalam actor Prithviraj Sukumaran has responded indirectly to the absence of Aadujeevitham (The Goat Life) from the list of winners at the recently announced National Film Awards. Speaking at a public event in Sharjah, the actor emphasised that films are made primarily for audiences—not to impress juries or win awards.

“Films aren’t made for a jury or a panel of ten people to watch and score,” said Prithviraj. “Yes, it’s wonderful when a film is selected for international festivals or recognised by award committees. That has its own merit, and I’m not dismissing that. But ultimately, films are made for the audience—to be watched and experienced in theatres.”

He added that the greatest recognition Aadujeevitham could receive was already given by the viewers. “The audience went to the cinema, watched the film, and appreciated it. That is the biggest award any film can hope for. I thank them for that. Aadujeevitham is a very special film.”

The actor’s remarks come in the wake of widespread criticism over Aadujeevitham being overlooked in all 14 categories it competed in at the 71st National Film Awards. Many fans and industry voices expressed their disappointment on social media, arguing that the film deserved recognition in key categories such as Best Actor, Best Director, and Best Cinematography.

Clips from the film showcasing its powerful performances and technical brilliance have been widely circulated online in the days since the awards announcement.

Despite the national-level snub, Aadujeevitham performed strongly at the Kerala State Film Awards, where it won nine awards, including Best Director for Blessy. The film, based on Benyamin’s best-selling novel of the same name, was directed and scripted by Blessy, with music composed by the Oscar-winning A.R. Rahman.