It's a 'shabaash' (pat on the back) from celebrity author Shobhaa De to filmmaker Shoojit Sircar for helming a controversial movie like Madras Cafe. "Watched Madras Cafe in a packed hall. Shoojit 'Le Carre' Sircar deserves a shabaash. Yes, it's controversial. That's why it works," De posted in a tweet Friday.

In her tweet, she made a reference to John Le Carre, a British author of espionage novels, perhaps putting Sircar on a par with him after watching the latter's political thriller.

Madras Cafe, co-produced by John Abraham and Viacom 18 Motion Pictures, is based on the Sri Lankan civil war. It was under attack by Tamil activists who alleged that it showcases LTTE cadres in poor light.

Nevertheless, the movie, which also features John in the lead role of a RAW agent, has been hailed in the film circles. Acclaimed director Madhur Bhandarkar tweeted: "Saw the very impressive Madras Cafe! Brilliant performances from the entire cast, and great detailing and direction makes it a must watch!"

Nikhil Advani posted: "Saw Madras Cafe. One of my favorite storytellers, Shoojit Sircar keeps it pure, so damn gutsy. Kudos to pull off a masterfully crafted film."

The film also stars Nargis Fakhri and debutante Raashi Khanna.