'Badlapur' had strong chance to win National award: Himanshu Sharma

Mumbai: Himanshu Sharma, who bagged the National award for his screenplay and dialogues in "Tanu Weds Manu Returns," feels that Varun Dhawan-starrer "Badlapur" also had a "strong chance" to win the coveted honour.

Himanshu shared the award with writer Juhi Chaturvedi ('Piku') at the 63rd National Awards, which were announced recently.

"I am happy that after audience's love, we have got this big honour as well. I was hoping and praying that we win it. But I was blown away by 'Badlapur'. I think even 'Badlapur' had a strong chance of winning. I loved the story and I love Sriram Raghavan's ('Badlapur' director) work," Himanshu told PTI.

The writer is known for his work on "Tanu Weds Manu" series and "Raanjhanaa", both helmed by Aanand L Rai.

On Kangana Ranuat winning the best actress award for her double role in "Tanu Weds Manu Returns", he said, "Kangana deserved the award. She is a brilliant actress. I did anticipate that she would win the national award. I congratulated her. We both were happy for each other".

The writer feels that a National award does bring in a sense of responsibility.

"There is a pressure and responsibility to perform better. I would continue working hard and entertain audience through my work."