The 70th National Film Awards are set to be announced on Friday, 16 August, at 3 pm. These prestigious awards recognise films released in 2022, considering those censored between 1 January and 31 December 2022.

Two prominent actors are in the running for the Best Actor award: Mammootty and Kannada star Rishab Shetty.

Mammootty is a strong contender for his roles in Nanpakal Nerathu Mayakkam and Rorschach. Both films were produced by Mammootty’s own company, Mammootty Company. His dual role in Nanpakal Nerathu Mayakkam, directed by Lijo Jose Pellissery, has received critical acclaim. His portrayal of Luke Antony in Rorschach has also been widely praised.

Rishab Shetty, meanwhile, is competing with his performance in Kantara. He wrote and directed the film, which was released on 30 September 2022. The film’s success in Kerala and its screening at the United Nations office in Geneva have bolstered his candidacy. The awards are expected to be distributed in October.

Coinciding with the National Film Awards, the 54th Kerala State Film Awards will also be announced on Friday 12 pm. Mammootty, for his roles in Kannur Squad and Kaathal – The Core, and Prithviraj, for his role in Aadujeevitham, are anticipated to be strong contenders for the Best Actor award at the state level.