The Malayalam film industry performed well at the 65th National Film Awards today, registering wins in categories such as the best director and the supporting actor.
Eminent filmmaker Jayaraj bagged the best director and best adapted screenplay award for his movie "Bhayanakam", while Fahadh Faasil was adjudged the best supporting actor for his stellar performance in "Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum".
A jubilant Jayaraj, who won the best director award for the second time, said "Bhayanakam", a part of his 'navarasa' series, revolves around the story of youths from Kuttanad in Kerala who had joined the British Indian army during World War II.
"I dedicate this award to those Kuttanad men who had joined the army and lost their lives in the war," he said.
The "Deshadanam" director also remembered Jnanpith laureate Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai as the theme of the movie was taken from the author's magnum opus "Kayar".
Fahadh Faasil, who was seen surrounded by fans and well-wishers soon after the announcement in Delhi, said his first ever national award was completely "unexpected."
The actor, who played a thief in "Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum", said the role was a "challenging" one.
"I expected some awards for the movie as many of my friends thought it had a pan-India appeal, but I never expected an individual award for me," Fazil, who is currently shooting for director Amal Neerad's movie, said.
He also thanked his director Dileesh Pothan, script writer Sajeev Pazhoor and his co-stars for his performance.
Veteran playback singer K J Yesudas, actor Parvathy, scriptwriter Sajeev Pazhoor and cinematographer Nikhil S Praveen were among those who brought laurels to the industry.
Yesudas received his eighth National Award as he was adjudged the best playback singer for the song 'Poyi Maranjakaalam' from "Viswasapoorvam Mansoor".
Actor Parvathy received a special mention for her performance in the Mahesh Narayan-directed survival thriller "Take Off", which also earned the best production design award for Santhosh Raman.
The wins by "Bhayanakam" also includes the best cinematography award for Nikhil S Praveen.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan congratulated the winners.
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