It is a landmark day for Malayalam cinema as the 71st National Film Awards are being presented today, September 23 (Tuesday). The ceremony will witness the recognition of talent and hard work of actors, filmmakers, and technicians from Kerala.

Veteran actor, director, and producer Mohanlal has been conferred with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema.

Malayalam stars take centre stage

Several Malayalis who won National Film Awards 2023 are being recognised today. Urvashi won Best Supporting Actor (Female) for her performance in Ullozhukku, while Vijayaraghavan received Best Supporting Actor (Male) for Pookkaalam, despite both technically playing lead roles in their respective films.

Ullozhukku, directed by Christo Tomy, was named Best Malayalam Film, earning acclaim for its storytelling and cinematic craft.

Technical brilliance recognised

Mohandas Pallakkotti received Best Production Design for 2018, praised for recreating the Kerala floods of 2018 on a set built on an empty plot. Midhun Murali won Best Editor for his seamless work in Pookkaalam. 

Honour in non-film category

In the non-film category, M.K. Ramdas earned a special mention for the documentary Nekal – Chronicle of the Paddy Man, highlighting skillful storytelling beyond mainstream cinema.