54th Kerala State Film Award 2024: Mammootty’s ‘Kaathal: The Core’ wins the Best Film Award

The 54th Kerala State Film Awards have been announced, with Mammootty's ‘Kaathal: The Core’ taking home the prestigious Best Film award. Directed by Jeo Baby, the 2023 courtroom drama has been lauded for its powerful storytelling and social commitment. The film's impact was further recognized with Mathews Pulikkan winning the Best Music Direction Award (Background Score), and Aadarsh Sukumaran receiving the Best Story Award.

Jeo Baby, the director of Kaathal: The Core, was recognised for his magnificent direction. The movie has been praised for its emotionally charged narrative.


In addition to Kaathal: The Core's success, Aadujeevitham, another highly acclaimed film, was awarded the Best Popular Film. Prithviraj Sukumaran, the lead actor in Aadujeevitham, won the Best Actor award for his compelling portrayal of Najeeb, a migrant worker struggling to survive in the harsh desert. Director Blessy also took home the Best Director award, further highlighting the film's excellence. Blessy was additionally recognized for Best Script Adaptation, where the jury praised his ability to bring the literary work to life on the big screen.

The Best Actress award was shared between Urvashi for her role in ‘Ullozhukku’ and Beena R Chandran for her performance in ‘Thadavu’.

The Best Second Film award was presented to Iratta, with Rohit MG Krishnan winning the Best Screenwriter award. Sunil KS was honored as Best Cinematographer for his outstanding work on Aadujeevitham, which played a crucial role in enhancing the film’s visual and narrative depth.

The Special Jury Award was given to Gaganachari for its innovative storytelling.

The awards were announced by Kerala Culture Minister Saji Cherian, with the jury chaired by Sudhir Mishra, and included esteemed filmmakers Priyanandanan, Lijo Jose Pellissery, cinematographer Alagappan N, and writer N S Madhavan.