Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala – The 11th Satyajit Ray Film Award was presented in Thiruvananthapuram, recognizing talent in film and short film. Bahrain-based Malayali director Lini Stanly received the Best Director award for her work on the short films ‘Stars in the Darkness’ and ‘Achan Mash.’
Stanly’s directorial skill in both films – an animated piece, ‘Stars in the Darkness,’ and ‘Achan Mash’ – earned her the prestigious recognition. She is also a singer and has contributed to numerous albums. The Best Actor award was presented to M.R. Gopakumar for his performance in ‘Achan Mash.’ Edathody K. Bhaskaran was honored with the Best NRI Producer Award for his work on the film ‘Kiratha,’ which is slated for theatrical release.
‘Stars in the Darkness,’ which premiered in April 2025 at Bahrain Epic Theatres and later at the Nil Theatre in Thiruvananthapuram under the auspices of the Kerala State Film Development Corporation, was noted for its innovative use of animation techniques. ‘Achan Mash,’ released in October 2025, featured a notable performance by M.R. Gopakumar. Jacob Creative Bees handled the cinematography for both films, with production control managed by Stanley Thomas and Vinod Attingal.
The award ceremony, held at the AKG Hall in Thiruvananthapuram, was inaugurated by G.R. Anil, Minister of Food, Civil Supplies, Legal Metrology, and Consumer Affairs. Prominent figures from the Malayalam film industry attended the event, including Dr. George Onakkoor, and directors Thulasidas, Balu Kiriyath, Joshi Mathew, Sajin Lal, T.S. Suresh Babu, and Sudheera N.M.
The Satyajit Ray Student Film Award 2026, as highlighted on Instagram, continues to recognize emerging talent. The awards, presented by the Satyajit Ray Film Society, Kerala, underscore the region’s commitment to fostering cinematic excellence. The society announced awards for films and short films released in 2025, signaling a continued dedication to supporting the art form.
This year’s awards follow a pattern established over the past several years, with the Satyajit Ray Film Society consistently honoring both established and up-and-coming filmmakers. The recognition of Lini Stanly, a director working outside of Kerala, demonstrates the society’s broadening scope and its willingness to acknowledge talent from the global Malayali diaspora. The Best NRI Producer award to Edathody K. Bhaskaran further emphasizes this inclusivity.
The selection of ‘Stars in the Darkness’ as a standout animated work is particularly noteworthy, given the growing prominence of animation within the Indian film industry. The film’s success highlights the potential for innovative storytelling through animation, and its recognition by the Satyajit Ray Film Society could encourage further investment in this genre. The cinematography, credited to Jacob Creative Bees, likely played a significant role in the film’s visual appeal and its subsequent award.
M.R. Gopakumar’s Best Actor win for ‘Achan Mash’ adds to his established reputation within Malayalam cinema. His performance in the film clearly resonated with the jury, solidifying his position as a respected actor in the region. The film itself, released in October, gained attention for Gopakumar’s contribution, suggesting a compelling narrative and strong character development.
The presence of numerous prominent figures from the Malayalam film industry at the award ceremony underscores the importance of the Satyajit Ray Film Society and its awards within the regional cinematic landscape. The involvement of Minister G.R. Anil further highlights the government’s support for the film industry and its commitment to recognizing artistic achievement.
The upcoming theatrical release of ‘Kiratha,’ produced by Edathody K. Bhaskaran, is anticipated within the industry. The Best NRI Producer award serves as a positive sign for the film’s prospects, potentially attracting wider attention and distribution opportunities. The film’s success will likely depend on its quality and its ability to connect with audiences.
The Satyajit Ray Film Society’s continued dedication to recognizing excellence in film, as evidenced by these awards, plays a vital role in nurturing the growth of the Malayalam film industry and promoting cinematic artistry. The awards serve as a platform for both established and emerging filmmakers, fostering a vibrant and dynamic creative environment.
