‘Files and piles get awards... not Mammootty’: Prakash Raj slams National Film Awards after Malayalam legend's National Award snub

Prakash Raj has taken a bold swing at the National Film Awards. The actor and filmmaker, who chaired the jury for the 55th Kerala State Film Awards, set social media abuzz after declaring that “the National Awards don’t deserve Mammootty.” His fiery remarks, made during the award announcement in Thrissur, were seen as a direct dig at the system that continues to overlook the Malayalam cinema icon.

Prakash Raj didn’t hold back, saying the National Awards have turned into a game of “files and piles” instead of genuine artistry. The sharp remark came as a clear criticism of the kind of films being recognised. According to him, these awards are “compromised,” unlike the 55th Kerala State Film Awards, where he claims jury independence was fully respected.

Sharing insights from his time as jury chair, Prakash revealed that 128 films were submitted this year — but only around 10% met the mark. He praised Mammootty’s performance in Bramayugam, calling it a masterclass in subtlety and presence. He added that the actor's ability to convey deep emotion through silence is a skill few young actors have mastered. He emphasised that when true talent speaks, age and experience become irrelevant.


In his signature blunt tone, he reminded everyone that award committees are not “charity organisations.” They must honour only the best — and in his eyes, Mammootty’s continued relevance and reinvention deserve exactly that. “If he’s still relevant (at this age), that is something to be inspired by,” he said.


When asked about the National Awards repeatedly overlooking Mammootty, Prakash Raj didn’t hold back. He said the National Awards simply don’t deserve an actor of Mammootty’s calibre. Comparing his experience leading the Kerala jury, he noted that the state awards maintained integrity by allowing full independence—something he believes is missing at the national level. Taking a sharper dig, he added that when “files and piles” walk away with trophies, it exposes exactly what’s wrong with the system.

About Bramayugam

Bramayugam is a Malayalam period folk-horror thriller directed by Rahul Sadasivan, starring Mammootty, Arjun Ashokan, and Sidharth Bharathan. Set in 17th-century Malabar, the black-and-white film follows Thevan, a wandering folk singer who seeks shelter in a mysterious mansion ruled by Kodumon Potti, a sorcerer hiding dark secrets. As Thevan uncovers the mansion’s haunting history of curses, deception, and possession, the lines between man and demon blur. Praised for its chilling atmosphere, stellar performances, and striking visuals, Bramayugam became a major box-office hit, earning Mammootty his seventh Kerala State Film Award.