Mammootty and Dhanush Toast Their National Film Awards on the ‘OM’ Set

It was a picture‑perfect moment on the bustling set of the upcoming Tamil action‑thriller OM. Veteran Malayalam actor Mammootty and Tamil powerhouse Dhanush, flanked by director Rajkumar Perisamy and editor R Kalaivanan, gathered around a modest cake to mark a milestone that many in the industry only dream about – winning National Film Awards.

On Instagram, Mammootty posted a series of candid shots, captioning them, “A small celebration of our National Award wins with Dhanush, Rajkumar Perisamy and R Kalaivanan on the sets of OM. Grateful for all the love and wishes.” The photos showed the four men laughing, cutting the cake, and sharing a brief, heartfelt moment amid the usual clatter of a film shoot.

For Mammootty, this was his fourth National Award, earned for his soul‑stirring performance in the Malayalam drama Brayamugam. Dhanush, meanwhile, walked away with two honours at the 72nd National Film Awards – a Best Tamil Film trophy for his directorial debut Raayan, and a Special Mention (Best Actor) for his role in Captain Miller. The director, Rajkumar Perisamy, was lauded with the Best Director award for Amaran, while editor R Kalaivanan took home the Best Editing award for the same film.

“This is the third national award as an actor but recognition for directing Raayan is a different milestone in my artistic journey,” Dhanush wrote in a note after his win. “A first is always unforgettable.” The words echoed the quiet pride that seemed to ripple through the group.

Even Mammootty’s son, Dulquer Salmaan, joined the fun on social media, posting a cheeky photo of himself with the caption, “Another one? Yes, Pa! It’s like your FOURTH! Oh sweet! What about you? Win anything? Er No! No pressure son! You do you.” The playful banter added a human touch to an otherwise star‑studded affair.

‘OM: Chapter 1 (Udhiram – The Blood Wood)’ is slated for a worldwide release on October 16. The film stars Dhanush, Mammootty, Sai Pallavi and Sreeleela, and is directed by Rajkumar Perisamy. Backed by Wunderbar Films and R Take Studios, the project draws inspiration from real‑life events, though the full storyline remains under wraps. Music will be scored by Sai Abhyankkar.

Both actors have busy schedules ahead. Dhanush recently wrapped up the Telugu venture Kara and will soon appear in Thamizh Murugan in addition to OM. Mammootty, fresh from the Malayalam hit Patriot, has several projects lined up, including Law and Order, Padayaatra and Mattancherry Mafia.

While the cake was simple, the sentiment was anything but. It served as a reminder that behind the glitz and glamour, these artists share genuine moments of gratitude and camaraderie – especially when their craft is recognized at the highest level.