Thangalaan's Absence: The Unspoken 'What If' at the 72nd National Film Awards

Ah, the National Film Awards – always a time for celebration, debate, and, let's be honest, a little bit of 'what if' contemplation. When the curtains drew on the 72nd edition, recognizing the finest films of 2023, many deserving works were honored. But for a certain segment of film buffs, particularly those tracking Tamil cinema, a nagging question persisted: was Chiyaan Vikram's 'Thangalaan' the biggest, most talked-about absence?

It’s hard to deny the buzz that 'Thangalaan' has generated. Ever since its first look and a gripping teaser dropped, there’s been an palpable sense of anticipation surrounding this Pa. Ranjith directorial. Ranjith, after all, is a filmmaker known for his distinctive voice, his powerful narratives that often unearth forgotten histories and champion marginalized voices. Think 'Sarpatta Parambarai' or 'Kaala' – films that resonate long after you've watched them. With 'Thangalaan,' he promised an unflinching look into the lives of a tribal community in the Kolar Gold Fields, an era steeped in exploitation and struggle. And with Chiyaan Vikram at the helm, a performer renowned for his intense transformations and unwavering commitment, the project felt destined for something truly special.

Vikram, as we know, has poured his heart and soul into this role, adopting a rugged, almost primal look that has captivated audiences. The visuals shared so far have painted a vivid, raw, and often brutal picture of colonial-era India, hinting at a cinematic experience that goes beyond mere entertainment. It felt like a film designed to make a statement, to provoke thought, and frankly, to sweep awards.

So, why the absence from the 72nd National Film Awards discussions, you ask? Well, here's the crucial, albeit slightly heartbreaking, detail: for a film to be considered for this year's awards, it needed to have been released by December 31, 2023. And 'Thangalaan,' despite its extensive production and the hype it built throughout the year, didn't make that cutoff. Its release was pushed, understandably, to 2024. It’s a classic case of unfortunate timing, isn't it?

While we saw other fantastic films from 2023, like the critically acclaimed 'Nanpakal Nerathu Mayakkam' or the vibrant '2018', rightfully picking up accolades, one couldn't help but wonder what 'Thangalaan' might have brought to the table. Would it have been a contender for Best Actor for Vikram? Perhaps Best Direction for Ranjith, or even the coveted Best Feature Film? The speculation is endless, and frankly, it fuels the excitement for its eventual premiere.

But fret not, dear cinephile! While this year's window closed on 'Thangalaan,' its journey is far from over. This very omission, in a strange way, only amplifies the anticipation. It means the film will now be eligible for the next edition of the National Film Awards. It gives us something truly significant to look forward to, an artistic endeavor that many believe has the potential to leave an indelible mark on Indian cinema. Until then, we wait with bated breath, hoping 'Thangalaan' lives up to every bit of its immense promise.