Malayalam films fail to impress at 62nd National Film awards

Thiruvananthapuram: There were just four awards given to Malayalam films at the 62nd National Film awards that were announced in New Delhi on Tuesday.

The biggest award that came for Malayalam films this time was "Ottal", directed by five-time national award-winner Jayaraj, which was adjudged as the best film in the environment category.

"The story is an adaptation of an 18th century work that tells the tale of child labour. I dedicate this award to the numerous child labourers whose life is a nightmare," said Jayaraj.

For the same film, Joshy Mangalethu who wrote the screenplay got the best screenplay award.

The film "Ain" that was awarded the best feature film in Malayalam got another one when actor Mustafa won a special jury mention for his role in the film.

Reacting to getting a special jury mention, Mustafa, who was busy in a shoot for a new film at Kochi, recalled the tough times that he and his friends faced to get the film "Ain" to be put up for the awards.

"Right from the time the shooting of the film began, it was tough for us. I remember my mom used to prepare food for us and it was only in the nick of the time that we could send the film for the awards. Am so happy, I got this one and also it is the best feature film in Malayalam," said Mustafa.

Gopi Sunder walked away with the best background score in the film "1983".

Speaking to reporters, N. Gopalakrishnan, one of the jury members, pointed out that there were some very good films from Malayalam but the final decision was that of the jury.

"The jury's decision is one that is made after discussions and hence its decision has to be accepted," said Gopalakrishnan.