I don't pick films on the basis of actress' role: Madhavan

R. Madhavan says he is often questioned about his female co-stars walking away with awards instead of him, but the actor is not bothered about it. He says he doesn't opt for films on the basis of the length of an actress' role.

This year, Kangana Ranaut clinched the National Film Award in the Best Actress category for her superlative dual act in "Tanu Weds Manu Returns", and martial artist-turned-actress Ritika Singh won the National Award in the Special Mention category for the "gutsy performance" of a boxer in "Irudhi Suttru" ("Saala Khadoos"). Madhavan was the male protagonist in both the films.

He said: "Everyone keeps on telling me that heroines have a role of greater importance in my films that they even walk away with awards (hinting at National Film Awards). But the point is that I don't select films on that basis.

"I have never thought to take films where they have small or irrelevant roles. Such type of stories don't interest me."

Madhavan shared his views while hosting a gala event on Saturday to mark the completion of two years of the Narendra Modi government.

The actor went on to say: "If some director tells me that I have to slap a female star for a scene, then I drop that film only. I have never raised my hand on women -- onscreen as well."

Madhavan, who looked sophisticated in a black kurta and white pyjama teamed up well with a white stole, feels his outlook is all about conditioning.

"I think all this is about conditioning, how you are raised, your surroundings. My mother was an empowered woman, and my sister got what I got. I never felt that they are less than us."