National Award panel not qualified enough for Big B: Ram Gopal Varma

Maverick filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma, who is in the national capital to promote his forthcoming film "Veerappan", says the National Award Committee is not qualified enough to give megastar Amitabh Bachchan an award.

Speaking in regard to the veteran actor's Best Actor Award at the 63rd National Film Awards, the "Satya" filmmaker believes that Amitabh has proved his talent multiple times over the decades.

"Amitabh Bachchan has proved his talent multiple times over the decades. I think National Award Committee is not qualified enough to give him an award," Varma told reporters here.

The biographical film has been written and directed by Varma, based on the life of Indian bandit Veerappan, and the events leading to Operation Cocoon to capture or kill Veerappan.

The film features actors Sandeep Bharadwaj, Lisa Ray, Sachiin J Joshi and Usha Jadhav.

The film is slated for a worldwide release on May 27, 2016.

Ace filmmaker Ramesh Sippy headed the Feature Film jury of the 63rd National Film Awards.