'Indian Rupee', Dileep and Shweta shine

A spate of films that breathed a fresh life to the Malayalam film industry got their due recognition at the State Film Awards 2011.

Ranjith’s 'Indian Rupee', a film that revolves around the young generation’s obsession with money and their improper ways to earn a quick buck, was adjudged the best film.

P Balachandran’s Ivan Megharoopan chronicling the tumultuous life of poet P Kunjiraman Nair bagged four awards including the second best film, best music director (P Sharath), best editing (Vinod Sukumaran) and best debut artist female (Praveena).

'Pranayam', a poignant portrayal of three individuals trapped in the labyrinth of love and loyalty, won Blessy the award for best director.

While Dileep’s portrayal of an ill-starred film actor in 'Vellaripravinte Changathi' won him the best actor award, Shweta Menon was adjudged the best actress for her spontaneous and modest performance in 'Salt N’ Pepper'.

Fahad Fazil, the most celebrated actor of the new-gen films, bagged the award for the second best actor for 'Chappa Kurishu' and 'Akam'.

Nilambur Ayisha’s granny in 'Oomakkuyil Padumbol' won her the award for second best actress. Aashiq Abu’s 'Salt N’ Pepper' won the award for the popular film with aesthetic appeal and Sherry was adjudged the best debut director for 'Adimadhyantham'.