(Image source from: www.filmcompanion.in)

Tollywood independent film C/O Kancharapalem made by debutant director  Venkatesh Maha has been denied nomination for National Award as it has produced by an Indian American producer Praveena Paruchuri.

The film, released in September 2018 was set entirely in a nondescript village of Kancharapalem with its residents themselves comprising its cast, won many hearts and a slew of international awards as well, for presenting a so far unseen slice of village life in Andhra Pradesh.

The film revolves around four stories of love and longing, set in a small town.

On Wednesday, Praveena took to Twitter to express her disappointment.

"So sorry Venkatesh Maha. Care of Kancharapalem, your hard work and talent is not eligible to be recognized at the Indian National Film Awards because it was produced by me - a US citizen although of Indian origin. I failed you (sic)," she wrote.

SO SORRY @venkateshmaha25 #CareOfKancharapalem , your hard work and talent is NOT ELIGIBLE to be recognized at the #indiannationalfilmawards because it was Produced by me- a US citizen although of Indian origin ...I failed you

— paruchurimd (@paruchurimd) January 9, 2019

Responding to the message, director Maha Venkatesh tweeted, "It's not you @paruchurimd, it's the outdated rules and regulations of our country. I don't understand why an Indian film, made by an Indian director, in India, acted by Indians and for Indian audience is not eligible for Indian National Awards (sic)." He also tagged the Directorate of Film Festivals and said that it was 'time for change.'

It’s not you @paruchurimd, it’s the outdated rules and regulations of our country. I don’t understand why an Indian film, made by an Indian director, in India, acted by Indians and for Indian audience is not eligible for Indian National Awards. @DFF_India time for change. https://t.co/5xdD9PFjzk

— Venkatesh Maha (@venkateshmaha25) January 9, 2019

Netizens were speedy to pour support and express their letdown over the film being ineligible for the honor. They also reminded her that the film had won the hearts of the people.

Made on a small budget and featuring more than 70 debutant actors, 'C/O Kancharapalem' emerged as one of the most loved Indian films earlier this year.

Before its theatrical release in 2018, it had its world premiere at the New York Indian Film Festival.

-Sowmya Sangam