Kolkata, July 26: It was a day of celebration for the mother-daughter duo of Aparna Sen and Konkona Sen Sharma who bagged two national awards for the film 'Mr and Mrs Iyer', while confessing that no international honour could better it. "It is a great honour after long and a reason for family celebration as well," an elated Aparna Sen, who got the award for the best director, said immediately after she heard about the National Awards today. The film, which depicts a love story in the backdrop of communal violence, has always been a dream theme for the maker of other award winning films 'Parama', 'Unnishe April' and '36 Chowringhee Lane'. "I have always thought that love blooms best when pitted against violence. The theme of this film was perpetually at the back of my mind even when i was shooting for umpteen other projects," she said. The film bagged many international honours but the National Award had 'strong emotional ties'.

"I was disappointed by the jury in the past since many of my critically acclaimed films like 'Yugant' had only got regional awards. This award reaffirms my convictions," she said.

Konkona, who has received critical acclaim for her first two films 'Ek Je Aachche Kanya' and 'Titli', said the award was a real boost for her.

"With names like Aishwarya Rai, whom the entire country adores, in the fray, it is humbling to get the award for the best actress. The phone at home has been ringing since morning...It is very exciting," she said.

Bureau Report