Sidharth Bharathan has been honored with the prestigious Kerala State Film Award for Best Supporting Actor for his compelling performance in the 2024 horror fantasy film Bramayugam. The award was presented during the 55th edition of the Kerala State Film Awards ceremony, held on Sunday, January 25, where Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan distributed the accolades to the deserving winners.
A Transformative Experience for the Actor-Filmmaker
After receiving the award, Sidharth Bharathan expressed that Bramayugam represented an epoch leap in his understanding of both acting and filmmaking. In a heartfelt note shared on Instagram, he conveyed his gratitude to director Rahul Sadasivan for considering him for the pivotal role of the Cook, as well as to his co-actors Mammootty and Arjun Ashokan, along with the entire cast and crew of the film.
About Bramayugam and Sidharth Bharathan's Role
Bramayugam, directed by Rahul Sadasivan, is a black-and-white horror fantasy that has garnered significant attention. The film features Mammootty in the lead role as Chathan, disguised as Kodumon Potti, while Sidharth Bharathan essayed the role of a cook who serves Chathan, despite harboring feelings of disdain towards him. This complex character arc, where he portrays a servant torn between duty and hatred, captivated audiences and critics alike, ultimately leading to his award-winning recognition.
Arjun Ashokan also appears in the film as a folk singer, adding to the rich narrative tapestry. Sidharth Bharathan, who is not only an actor but also a filmmaker, described the experience as transformative. He highlighted how working alongside veteran actor Mammootty was initially overwhelming but soon evolved into a fantastic and supportive collaboration.
Insights from Sidharth Bharathan on Working with Mammootty
In an earlier interview with Kochi Times, Sidharth Bharathan shared his thoughts on the filming process. He mentioned that while there was a personal warmth due to Mammootty being a compatriot of his parents, the late director Bharathan and actress KPAC Lalitha, this association did not influence their onscreen dynamics. Instead, he focused on Mammootty as a co-actor whose support was crucial for enhancing his performance. Bharathan emphasized that the initial nervousness was beneficial, as it fueled his creative process in embodying the character.
Other Award Winners from Bramayugam
The success of Bramayugam at the 55th Kerala State Film Awards extended beyond Sidharth Bharathan's achievement. Mammootty himself clinched the Best Actor award for his portrayal of Chathan, further cementing the film's critical acclaim. Additionally, music director Christo Xavier and makeup artist Ronex Xavier were also recognized with awards, highlighting the film's excellence across various technical and artistic domains.
This recognition underscores the film's impact on Malayalam cinema and its ability to blend horror and fantasy elements with profound storytelling. The awards ceremony not only celebrated individual performances but also acknowledged the collaborative effort that brought Bramayugam to life, making it a standout entry in the 2024 film landscape.
