Mammootty, Mohanlal bag Asianet awards

Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 12 (IANS) Rival film stars Mammootty and Mohanlal have bagged this year's Ujala-Asianet film awards presented by a private television channel in Kerala.

Superstar Mammootty has clinched the Best Actor award for his roles in 'Big B', 'Orae Kadal' and 'Kathaparayumbol' and his archrival Mohanlal has been adjudged the most popular actor for his releases last year.

Lal Jose bagged the award of the best director for movie 'Arabikatha' and 'Kathaparayumbol' has been judged best film.

The tenth edition of the annual awards will be presented here on Jan 20 in a ceremony organised by Asianet, the first satellite channel of the state.

Speaking after the awards were declared, Mammootty said: 'Any award is a great inspiration to me.

'I am extremely happy that I have been selected. Awards really make me happy because this is a recognition.'

Popular actress Meera Jasmine won the Best Actress award for her roles in 'Orae Kadal' and 'Vinodhayatra'.

'I am really happy because this is the fourth time I am winning this award. Asianet film award is special to me and I'm really delighted,' said Jasmine from Hyderabad over telephone.

Veteran actress Sheela, who has entered her fifth decade in the industry, was selected for the Life Time Achievement Award.