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Child Actor Accuses Kerala Film Awards Jury of Ignoring Young Talents
5 Nov
Summary
- 12-year-old actor Devanandha Jibin criticizes jury head Prakash Raj
- No awards given in children's film category this year
- Jury claims submitted movies did not represent a child's perspective
The 55th Kerala State Film Awards, announced on November 5th, 2025, have sparked controversy after the jury, headed by actor Prakash Raj, decided not to give any awards in the children's film category.
In response, 12-year-old actor Devanandha Jibin, known for her work in films like Malikappuram, Thottappan, and My Santa, has taken to Instagram to criticize the jury's decision. Jibin accused the jury of closing its eyes to the performances of child actors in the Malayalam film industry, stating that several children have acted in many movies, including Stanarthy Sreekuttan, Gu, Phoenix, and ARM.
Jibin argued that the jury's decision was not the right approach, as it would have provided "energy for many children" if they had recognized the work of young performers. She expressed her disappointment that the jury chairman, Prakash Raj, who had previously stated that children should get more opportunities and are part of society, did not see the rights of children in this case.
The controversy has sparked a wider discussion about the representation of children in the Malayalam film industry and the responsibility of the jury to recognize and encourage young talents.
