The fifth Nataraja Awards recently took place with all due red-carpet glamour at the Muangthai Rachadalai Theatre. Hosted by the Professionals of Broadcasting Council of Thailand, the event aims to recognise outstanding work and professionals in the broadcast media and promote quality infotainment. Winners are voted for by their peers.
The highlight of the awards ceremony for many was the red-carpet arrival of the superstars, all of whom were glamorously outfitted in designer gowns and snappy suits, looking their best for the throngs of paparazzi.
There were a total of 31 categories, ranging from best news and documentary producer to best game show and sports programme, with the awards for television series among the most hotly anticipated.
The series Thong Neua Kao swept nine of the 14 available awards for television series, including best cinematography, picture editing, script (Yingyos Panya), cast, supporting actress (Ampha Phusit), leading actor (Nattawut Skidjai), leading actress (Woranut Bhirombhakdi), director (Pongpat Wachirabunjong) and best series.
Honorary awards were also presented in the field of radio and television broadcasting, respectively, to Kalaya Tinapong, a veteran producer of radio drama, and Aree Nakdontree, television announcer, actress, singer and producer.
Best supporting actor went to Alex Rendell for Samee, while the popular Suparbburuth Chutathep took three awards: best art direction, costume and original score.
Two mini concerts provided a diversion during the ceremony. The first was from Si Pho Dum (The Four Spades), namely Gam, Dome, Tum and Gun, past winners of The Star singing contest. The second was a rendition of the patriotic song Rak Kan Wai Therd (Let's Love One Another) by artists from Channel 7, The Star and KPN.
Arguably the most talked about moment of the awards ceremony was when Pongpat accepted the award for best television series. Having created a stir at the first Nataraja Awards four years ago for his stirring speech on His Majesty the King, he once again earned huge applause when he concluded his acceptance speech with the words, “Thank you for giving happiness back to the people. I hope it won’t be temporary, but long-lived. May I make my three-finger salute?”
Then he signed off with the widely recognised gesture that says “I love you”.
