Sanal Kumar Sasidharan's 'Vazhakku' expecting three major awards; Kunchacko shows might against Mammootty

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Actors Mammootty, Fahad Fasil, and Kunchako Boban have earned a place in the final round of the best actor category in the yet-to-be-announced Kerala state awards. Actor Vincy Sony Aloshious is in a head-on-head battle with Zarin Shihab for the best actress award.

Mammootty's films "Nanpakal Nerath Mayakkam," "Puzhu," and "Rorschach" have made it to the final round, with his performance in "Nanpakal Nerath Mayakkam" garnering praise at international film festivals. Kunchacko Boban, on the other hand, is in the run with his films "Ariyippu," "Nna Than Case Kodu," and "Pada." Meanwhile, Fahad comes as a surprise entrant into the list for his performance in the 2022 released "Malayankunju". Earlier reports said it would be Prithviraj who will accompany Kunchako and Mammooty in the final round.

Vincy Sony Aloshious earned a spot for her spectacular solo show in "Rekha", while Zarin Shihab was placed on the list for her portrayal in the movie "Attam".

Meanwhile, Sanal Kumar Sasidharan directed "Vazhakku" is expected to clinch at least three prized awards this time including Best Director. Several notable films are being considered for the State Film Awards, including Lijo Jose Pellissery's "Nanpakal Nerath Mayakkam," Tarun Murthy's "Saudi Vellakka," Mahesh Narayanan's "Ariyippu," Shahi Kabir's "Ela Veezha Poonchira," and Vipin Das's "Jaya Jaya Jaya Jay Hai," among others.

The final jury, chaired by acclaimed Bengali filmmaker Gautam Ghosh, has commenced the evaluation process for the films that made it to the final round. The announcement of the awards is expected to take place on the 18th. The final jury comprises actress Gauthami, cinematographer Hari Nair, sound designer D. Yuvraj, and playback singer Jency Gregory, who will collectively determine the deserving winners across various categories.