Kochi: Actor and filmmaker Prakash Raj, who chaired the jury for the 55th Kerala State Film Awards, lauded Mammootty’s exceptional performance in Bramayugam while expressing sharp criticism of the National Film Awards.

“They don’t deserve Mammookka. Even though he is competing with youngsters, we don’t look at it as senior men and youngsters. The presence of Mammookka in Bramayugam, the nuances he carried just with his presence, was very strong. The youngsters still have to achieve that level of expression,” Prakash Raj said.

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“In spite of that, when you see Tovino in ARM or Asif Ali, whose four films we had seen, there is this essence of young actors trying to excel — and that is the great influence of actors like Mammookka and Lalettan. When you look at performance, the presence and nuances he brings... I was very jealous of it, and he deserved that. Youngsters should adore him, follow him, and reach that level,” he added.

Speaking about the integrity of the selection process, Prakash Raj drew a comparison with the National Film Awards, saying, “I don’t mind saying that the National Film Awards are compromised. I am so happy to be the jury chairman in Kerala. When they called me, they said they needed someone from outside who is experienced and won’t interfere in the decision-making. However, this is not something that happens at the National Awards. We see it. Files and piles are getting the awards. We know that such juries and such a government don’t deserve Mammookka.”

Kerala State Film Awards for 2024 winners

Mammootty and Shamla Hamza were named 'Best Actor' and 'Best Actress' in the 55th State Film Awards for 2024.

Chidambaram's 'Manjummel Boys' swept major honours, including 'Best Film'. Chidambaram also won the awards for 'Best Director' and 'Best Screenplay' (Original) for 'Manjummel Boys'.

Mammootty won the 'Best Actor' award for his portrayal of Kodumon Potty in 'Bramayugam', while Shamla Hamza, a relatively new face in the industry, bagged the 'Best Actress' title for her powerful performance in 'Feminichi Fathima'.

'Premalu', featuring Naslen and Mamitha Baiju, was named 'Best Popular Film'.

The awards were announced by Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cherian in the presence of the seven-member jury chaired by actor Prakash Raj.