Amitabh, Rani bag Screen awards

Amitabh Bachchan was adjudged best actor and Rani Mukherjee best actress for the film "Black" at the Hero Honda 12th Annual Star Screen Awards here.

Bachchan could not attend the award ceremony held at the NSE Grounds in Goregaon Wednesday due to his recent diverticulitis illness, according to a press release.

However, the actor nominated in two categories - best actor ("Black") and best supporting actor ("Bunty Aur Babli") - was represented by his wife Jaya Bachchan and son Abhishek Bachchan who collected the trophy on behalf of his father.

The junior Bachchan also won two trophies - best actor in a comic role ("Bunty Aur Babli" and Jodi No.1 ("Bunty Aur Babli").

Jaya Bachchan reportedly told a TV channel later that while she had been extremely confident about her husband's chances with "Black", she was proud of her son's victory because she had seen him "suffer through his struggle".

"The awards are an acknowledgment of his hard work and commitment against all odds," she added.

Amitabh Bachchan told the TV channel: "It is an overwhelming feeling to know that I am still being considered for such central characters at my age. I am indeed grateful to Bhansali for trusting me to play Devraj Sahai. I will always cherish 'Black' as a special memory."

"Black", which was nominated in 12 categories, picked up 10 awards including best film and best director for Bhansali.