The Malayalam Cine Technician Association (MACTA) honoured esteemed lyricist, film producer and director Sreekumaran Thampi with the prestigious MACTA Legend of Honour Award, presented by Malayalam director Joshi. The award includes a cash prize of one lakh rupees, a sculpture crafted by Kanai Kunhiraman, and a citation. The ceremony took place during a grand event in Kochi, celebrating MACTA’s 30th anniversary. The celebrations started on September 8 at 9:30 am with director Joshi hoisting the flag. FEFKA General Secretary B Unnikrishnan inaugurated the event by lighting the ceremonial lamp. The gathering included notable figures such as director Joshi, actor Lal, MACTA Chairman McCartin, MACTA General Secretary M Padmakumar, Treasurer Collins Leaphill, and directors Jose Thomas, Bhagyalakshmi, and Aparna Balamurali.
The event began with an introductory speech by B Unnikrishnan, followed by addresses from Sathyan Anthikad and Lal. A symposium on the theme of Changing Film Enjoyment featured screenwriters Sanjay Bobby, Vishnu Unnikrishnan, Bipin George, Sohan Seenulal, Father Anil Philip, Santhosh Verma, Bhagyalakshmi, Aparna Balamurali, actor Kailash, and actor Ravindran, engaging with students and film enthusiasts. Professor Aju K Narayanan moderated the discussion. The MACTA family reunion took place from 2 pm, featuring artistic performances and competitions among the members.
Sreekumaran Thampi was honoured with the Award on the main stage of the town hall in the evening. Following this, MACTA’s founding members, including Joshi, Kalur Dennis, SN Swami, Shibu Chakraborty, Gayatri Ashok, Rajeev Nath, Paul Babu, Rafi, and McCartin, were also honoured. The evening continued with a musical program featuring performances by singer Unni Menon, Sudeep Kumar, Pradeep Somasundaram, Devanand, Nikhil K Menon, Aparna Rajeev, and 20 other playback singers, who performed around 50 film songs from the early days of Malayalam cinema.
The event also featured dance performances by film star Swasika and actor Manikuttan, as well as stand-up comedy and comedy skits performed by MACTA members. A documentary titled Makta Harishivanhiin and a short film about Sreekumaran Thampi were screened during the program.
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