A day ago, the 64th National Film Awards were announced. Akshay Kumar won the Best Actor award for his work in Rustom while Mollywood actress Surabhi Lakshmi was awarded the best actress for her performance in Minnaminungu. Mohanlal`s special jury award came in as a big surprise to the audience.

Talking to media after announcing the winner, the jury chairman Priyadarshan, why Mohanlal was given the award. He said that unlike every year, there was a strong contention from regional movies this year. He added that only Malayalam films from the South Indian industry gave a tight competition to Bengali and Marathi movies. Priyadarshan also added that Mohanlal was among the last three names for the best actor for his performance in Pulimurugan, Janatha Garage and Munthirivallikal Thalirkumbol.

This is the second time Mohanlal is winning the special jury award after Kireedam (1989).