Dhanush has responded to the criticism surrounding his double win at the 72nd National Film Awards, saying he respects differing opinions but believes his achievements deserve to be celebrated rather than dismissed. The actor, who received honours for Raayan and Captain Miller, addressed the controversy during a recent public event, where he reflected on the mixed reactions to his National Award success.
Speaking about the criticism, Dhanush acknowledged that many viewers believed other films were more deserving of the award.
"I won the National Award for Raayan. There is no doubt that there were better films. Fans expressed their love for those films, and I respect that," he said.
The actor added that awards do not always arrive when expected. Referring to acclaimed performances in films such as Pudhupettai and Adhu Oru Kana Kaalam, Dhanush said many had predicted National Award recognition for those roles, but it never happened.
"Some things simply fall into place at the right time. My efforts were genuine, and I have won two National Awards. Don't overlook that celebrate it," he added.
#Dhanush on National Award Controversy 👀
— Gv (@gowtham0725) July 26, 2026
"Raayan vida Meiyazhagan & Maharaja better films dhaan... Aana Pudhupettai, Vada Chennai, Karnan, Maryan, & Raanjhanaa National Award miss pannapo yaarum pesaala."
"Inniku 90% oppose panraanga... Appo 10% kooda support pannala. Thatti… pic.twitter.com/zxyqwEZqC6
At the 72nd National Film Awards, Raayan, which was directed by Dhanush and featured him in the lead role, won the award for Best Tamil Film, while his performance in Captain Miller earned a Special Mention.
However, the announcement sparked debate on social media, with several users arguing that Vijay Sethupathi's Maharaja and Karthi's Meiyazhagan were more deserving of recognition. The criticism led to widespread trolling, prompting Dhanush to finally respond.
Released in 2024, Raayan emerged as a major commercial success, collecting around Rs 160 crore worldwide. The film remains the highest-grossing release of Dhanush's career and is currently available to stream on Prime Video.
