The Malaysian Indian mainstream entertainment industry witnessed a dazzling display of talent and glamour at the MICA Awards 3rd Edition. Organised by RG Creations and proudly endorsed by the Ministry of Communications and FINAS, this grand event unfolded at the HGH Convention Centre in Sentul, KL, marking a celebration of accomplishments and glory in the industry.
The 3rd Edition of the MICA Awards is presented by the prestigious Thamarai Jewels. This grand event is also co-presented by Indya and 9Skin, and its power and elegance are elevated with the support of BMW Quill Automobiles. Together, these esteemed sponsors and partners contribute to the magnificence and success of the MICA Awards, creating a platform that celebrates excellence and brilliance in the Malaysian Indian mainstream entertainment industry.
The Chief Guest for the occasion was the distinguished YBhg Dato Kamil Othman, Chairman of FINAS, accompanied by esteemed Guests of Honor, including Datin Rozitawaty, Deputy CEO of FINAS, and Segamat MP YB Tuan Yuneswaran. The presence and support of these accomplished individuals added even more prestige to the grand celebration.
The stage came alive with renowned personalities as award presenters, including Mr. Suriavelan, a renowned director, writer, and actor from Singapore; Mr. Megat Shahrizal, an esteemed Malaysian director and actor; Datin Sofea Jane; Ms. Vanida Imran; and Ms. Susan Lankester.
The entertainment lineup featured an electrifying opening act with DJ Music and a live band performance by Urban Tapes, followed by mesmerizing dance performances by Ti-Amo and KJ Dancers alongside talented Malaysian artists. The night also showcased soul-stirring songs and entertaining mimicry performances by Malaysian artists and marked the launch of the ADAYALAM music video.
The Mica Awards this year witnessed a heightened level of competitiveness, showcasing a tough fight among participants, surpassing the standards set by previous editions. The prestige of the awards lies in the fact that winners are selected by an independent panel of juries, devoid of any bias, adding to its reputation as a sought-after and notable accolade. Dato Kamil Othman, Chairman of FINAS, expressed anticipation for the evolution of an authentically Malaysian cinema that transcends ethnic boundaries in his officiating speech. He underscored the need for a collective effort to create a cinematic landscape where every story produced becomes a “Cerita Malaysia,” emphasizing the diverse nature of Malaysia and its people. Beyond theatrical movie categories, MICA also recognizes and celebrates young talents, creative contributors to Malaysian Indian Cinema, and veteran artists who have been pioneers in the industry. RG Naidu, the Founder and CEO of MICA AWARDS, highlighted the importance of applauding and encouraging individuals who excel in their respective fields, acknowledging their significant contributions to the creative industry.
The nominees in the Theatrical Movie Category were unveiled from a selection of 10 movie submissions covering the years 2022 to 2023. These selections were meticulously chosen by our esteemed panel of jurors, each bringing a wealth of accomplishments and extensive industry experience to the table. The list of nominees, presented in no particular order, includes titles such as “Adai Malai Kalam,” “Dum Dum Dumeel,” “Narigal,” “Naam Katra Isai,” “Ninaivo Oru Paravai,” “Rajathanthiram: The Piano,” “Poochandi,” “Senthozhan Sengkathiravanan,” “Sawadikap Pei,” and “Viman.”
Theatrical Movie Category Winners:
Best Movie: Poochandi
Best Director: JK Wicky (Poochandi)
Best Actor: Kash Villanz (Senthozhan Sengkathiravaanan)
Best Actress: Moon Nila (Senthozhan Sengkathiravaanan)
Best Supporting Actor: Tinesh Sarathi Krishnan (Poochandi)
Best Supporting Actress: Evarani (Adai Mazhai Kaalam)
Best Actor Newcomer: Loga Varman Strideran (Adai Mazhai Kaalam)
Best Actress Newcomer: Thia Lakshana (Adai Mazhai Kaalam)
Best Debut Director: Deepban M Vignesh (Dum Dum Dumeel)
Best Comedian: Alvin Martin (Narigal)
Best Villain: Irfan Zaini (Naam Katra Isai)
Best Lyrics Writer: Yuwaji – Ittana Thavam (Adai Mazhai Kaalam)
Best Music Director: Shameshan Manimaran (Adai Mazhai Kaalam)
Best Script Writer (SCREENPLAY): Karthik Shaamalan (Adai Mazhai Kaalam)
Best Background Music: Dustin Riduan Shah (Poochandi)
Best Playback Singer: Karnan Kanapathy (Unnaley – Ninaivo Oru Paravai)
Best Cinematographer: A Salisham bin Mohd Ali (Poochandi)
Best Editor: Harikrishnan Subramaniam (Naam Katra Isai)
Best Art Director: Ravindas Aridas (Poochandi)
Best Makeup Artist: Mira Manohgaran (Poochandi)
Best Stunt Director: Rubindran Nair (Dum Dum Dumeel)
Best Choreographer: Nantha & Sagithya Varma (Come Achi – Naam Katra Isai)
Best Artwork-Poster: Karthik Shaamalan (Adai Mazhai Kaalam)
SHORT FILM Category:
Best Short film: Roti Canai
Best Short film Actor: Nitin Subra (Roti Canai)
Best Short film Director: Yuvan Raj Ganesan (Vidwan)
POPULAR AWARDS:
Most Popular Movie: Naam Katra Isai
Most Popular Actor: Thevaguru
Most Popular Actress: Moon Nila
Popular RJ of the Year: Theyvekgan
Popular TV Host of the Year: Magen Vikadakavi
Popular Social Media Personality: Gunamax
Popular Social Media Content Creator: Dharshamini Kesavan
SPECIAL AWARDS:
MICA ICON of the YEAR: Saresh D7
Industry Excellence Award: Sangeeta Krishnasamy
Industry Excellence Award: Punnagai Poo Gheetha
Industry Excellence Award: Ganteeban @ Ben G
Industry Excellence Award: Shamini Shradha
Most Promising Actor: Shabby
Most Promising Actress: Chandhine Kaur
Special Jury Award: Hamsni Perumal
Special Jury Award: Yuvaraj Krishnasamy
Special Recognition Award: Ayya Veedu (Singapore)
Special Recognition Award: Krishna
Life Time Achievement
Life Time Achievement: Vijeyasingham Kandasamy
Life Time Achievement: Jasmine Micheal
Life Time Achievement: K Gunasekaran
Life Time Achievement: Rathey Sakubai
The MICA AWARDS 3rd Edition not only served as a platform for acknowledging outstanding achievements within the cinematic realm but also stood as a testament to the richness of diverse talents and significant contributions that collectively illuminate the Malaysian Indian Cinema on the global stage. It is with immense pleasure and heartfelt congratulations that we extend our appreciation to all the winners of this prestigious event.
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