Dileep, Swetha Menon win top honours at Kerala film awards

Thiruvananthapuram, July 19 (IANS) Popular actor Dileep Thursday won the best actor award at the Kerala State Film Awards, his first, for his role in "Velaripravinte Changathi", while Swetha Menon bagged best actress award for "Salt N' Pepper".

Director Renjith's "Indian Rupee" was declared the best film, and best director trophy went to Blessy for "Pranayam".

Dileep said he was not expecting the award and added: "In the past, I really wished I had won the award for my role in 'Kunhikoonan' and 'Chandupottu', but I never got it. So, this time it was totally unexpected because I felt I will never get an award."

On the other hand, Shweta was excited after winning her second Kerala State Film Award.

"Oh my god, I just can't believe this. I am really excited and I am unable to speak. Please allow me to thank all who worked in the film 'Salt N' Pepper', which fetched me my award," said the actress who is expecting her first child with husband Sreevalsan Menon.

The jury was led by veteran Tamil director K. Bhagyaraj.

Ailing Jagathy Sreekumar was declared best comedian. He is currently in a hospital in Tamil Nadu, following a serious road accident in March this year.

Upcoming star Fahad Fazil, son of acclaimed director Fazil, was honoured with the second best actor for his role in "Chapa Kurishu", while N. Ayisha was the second best actress for her role in "Oomakuyil".

Ageing superstars Mammootty, Mohanlal and Suresh Gopi missed the award rolls this time.

"Salt N' Pepper" also got the most popular film award.