Actor Prakash Raj, who chaired the jury for the 55th Kerala State Film Awards, criticized the National Film Awards during a press conference held on Monday evening. He stated that the National Awards are compromised and expressed satisfaction with Kerala's transparent selection process. Raj mentioned that Kerala organizers specifically sought an experienced outsider and allowed the jury complete independence without interference. He contrasted this with the National Awards, suggesting that the national government and jury do not deserve legendary actor Mammootty. The Kerala State Film Awards announced multiple winners, with Manjummel Boys and Bramayugam securing several honors. Mammootty won his seventh Best Actor award for Bramayugam, setting a record as the highest winner in that category. Manjummel Boys received both Best Film and Best Director awards.
Prakash Raj Questions National Film Awards Integrity
During the press conference, Prakash Raj openly criticized the National Film Awards, calling them compromised. He praised the Kerala State Film Awards for their transparent process, explaining that organizers invited him as an experienced outsider and promised complete autonomy in decision-making without interference. Raj contrasted this with the National Awards, where he suggested external influences affect outcomes. When asked about Mammootty's prospects at the National Awards, Raj remarked that the current national government and jury do not deserve the actor. Mammootty has won three National Awards previously for films including Mathilukal, Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha, Ponthan Mada, Vidheyan, and Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar. Fans have long complained that he deserved recognition more often but was overlooked by juries over the years.
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