Kangana Ranaut is a recipient of Padma Shri. In a recent talk show, Jayasudha wondered how someone who has barely delivered ten good performances was conferred with the aforementioned civilian honour while actresses like herself haven't been recognized by the Government of India.

The yesteryear actress suggested that the Southern cinema has been discriminated against by the Union Government. National Film Awards, announced every year, too, have faced similar criticism.

"Vijaya Nirmala garu, who secured a place in the Guinness Book of World Records, didn't receive Padma Sri," Jayasudha added.

Jaya Prada said that she doesn't believe in making public demands for awards.

The star actresses of the 1960s and 1970s are not the only ones who feel South Indian film talents have historically received a raw deal from the Centre. Padma awards have been used mainly to keep Bollywood in good humour. Congress-friend Hindi stars have been conferred with Padma awards more than others.