The Ram Sethu issue which created a storm in the political circle flared up an argument between Super Star Rajnikanth and Chief Minister M Karunanidhi at the annual State film awards distribution function held in Chennai on Tuesday.

Speaking on the occasion, Rajnikanth urged the Chief Minister to hold discussions with politicians in north India and come up with an amicable solution to the issue. In his response, Karunanidhi, said, 'I would rather urge Rajnikanth to take a step in his regard. The actor has got good friends in north India . He visits Himalayas often and next time when he visits the place, I would rather urge him to convince them that the DMK is against Lord Rama'. Distributing the awards, Karunanidhi pledged his continued support for the Tamil film industry.

Speaking on the occasion, Rajnikanth said, "one has to give good films and it should run successfully to get the patronage of the people. The State government by way of giving awards has honoured such good films. I am receiving the award for the best actor after a gap of 32 years. Chandramukhi was a special for me.I appeared as a King Vettayan in the movie towards the climax, which attracted the attention of the movie-buffs. The role was inspired by few valorous men, who were in the court of Aurangazeb". He also congratulated other winners on the occasion.

Kamal Haasan expressed confidence that the government would continue its welfare measures. It is a unique gesture to present books instead of bouquets and flowers. It is a right way to create knowledge. It is a prelude to creating a Singara Chennai.

Governor Surjit Singh Barnala said cinema should be used as a medium to improve the quality of life of people, create civic consciousness, public morality, national responsibility and solidarity.

Rajnikanth and Kamal Haasan received the Best Actor award for 2005 and 2006 respectively for 'Chandramukhi' and 'Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu'.

Actress Jothika and Priya Mani were honoured with the Best Actress award. Actors Vikram, Suriya, Vijay, Ajith, Karthi, Sandya, Nasser, Prakash Raj, Pasupathi, Vivek and Vadivelu received awards in various categories.

Producer-director Shankar, music director Harris Jayaraj, choreographer Kala, playback singers Bombay Jayashri, Sriram Parthasarathy, art director Thotta Tharani, lyricists Pa Vijay and Na Muthukumar were among the other awardees.

Veteran playback singer T M Soundararajan was presented with Kalaithurai Vithagar award.

The gala event witnessed variety cultural show with prominent actresses including Malavika, Nila, Namitha, Laksmi Rai rendering variety cultural show.

Ajith, who normally doesn't turn up for award functions was present at the venue to receive his award. Interestingly he was seated next to Vijay.

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