New Delhi: Vicky Kaushal believes Allu Arjun was top-notch in 'Pushpa: The Rise', and the National Film Awards jury made a great call by presenting the best actor award. While Kaushal did not win best actor this time, he was honoured with the National Film Award for his work in 'Uri: The Surgical Strike' in 2019.
When asked if he wished he had won for 'Sardar Udham', Kaushal stated that just being able to work with Sircar on the 2021 Hindi film was an accomplishment in and of itself.
"For me to be able to work with one of the directors that I've been craving to work with on a subject that is so personal to me, then to play the part, then to be appreciated for the role... It is just so much more than I ever wanted that everything else is a bonus. You can't fill the cup after it's full, it is that case with this film. 'Sardar Udham' is a special film for many reasons... I believe once the film is done, whatever happens to the film, you just accept it. We have a great jury who made a great decision. And, it was a fantastic performance by Allu Arjun," the actor told PTI.
"I'll be very honest, it is not fancy lines or words, but being a Punjabi, for me it is a huge deal to play Sardar Udham because this is the story that we have heard since childhood, and it is extremely personal. I've always thought, 'Why is this story not told to a wider audience?'" he added.
The 69th edition of the awards, which was announced last month, witnessed Kaushal's 'Sardam Udham' receive five awards in the categories of Best Hindi Film, Best Cinematography, Best Costume Designer, Best Production Design, and Best Audiography: Re-Recording (Final Mixing).
Meanwhile, Allu Arjun received the National Award for his movie 'Pushpa: The Rise' in 2021. The action-thriller, directed by Sukumar, is set against the backdrop of red sandalwood smuggling and chronicles the violence that ensues between the smugglers and cops. Arjun will reprise his role in the sequel 'Pushpa: The Rule,' which will be released on August 15, 2024.