It's more than expected: Vishal Bhardwaj on National Awards

Mumbai, March 24
Filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj is overwhelmed that his film "Haider", which completed his Shakespearean trilogy, was named for the National Awards on Tuesday. He says the honours have exceeded the team’s expectations.

“We have got more than what we expected. We have got five awards and I am overwhelmed,” Bhardwaj told reporters here.

“Haider” - a modern-day adaptation of William Shakespeare’s classic tragedy “Hamlet” - set in the backdrop of Kashmir, won Best Male Playback Singer for Sukhwinder Singh for the song "Bismil"; Best Dialogues and Music Direction for the film’s director Vishal Bhardwaj; Best Choreography for Norway-based Sudesh Adhana; and Best Costume Designer for the effervescent Dolly Ahluwalia.

“While making this film, I went with my conviction and I am happy that it has been appreciated,” added Bhardwaj, who has won four National Film Awards in the past.

His film “Haider” stars Shahid Kapur, Tabu and Kay Kay Menon in key roles, and Bhardwaj is naturally disappointed that Shahid didn’t win an award for his path-breaking performance in a complex character.

“I am a bit disappointed for Shahid. His performance was really good in the film. I feel sad for Shahid,” said the filmmaker, whose past movies "Maqbool" and "Omkara" were also inspired by Williams Shakespeare's plays.