'Adaminte Makan Abu', India's entry for Oscar

Directed &
Written by -
Salim Ahamed

Produced by -
Salim Ahmed
Ashraf Bedi

Starring -
Salim Kumar
Zarina Wahab


It is a pride moment for the Malayalam Film Industry as the movie "Adaminte Makan Abu" got nomination for the Oscar. This film had been a spotlight in the 58th National Film Awards by pushing Bollywood films into background. The best feature film award was awarded to this film along with the best actor award for Salim Kumar for his role as Abu.

The jury for the National Awards had told that the best feature award winning movie will be recommended for India's official entry to the Oscars. In the report submitted by the jury to the Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Ambika Soni, they stated that Malayalam feature film `Adaminte Makan Abu`, which has won the best feature film award, should be India`s official entry to the Oscar this year. It was selected ahead of other 15 films like "No One Killed Jessica", "7 Khoon Maaf", "Dhobi Ghat", Rajinikanth-starrer "Enthiran", "KO" and "Aadukalam" and "Moner Manush". Meanwhile the vice president of the film federation of India asked the the government to extend physical and financial help as costs relating to press shows, screenings and related activities work up to at least Rs 3-4 crore


The film tells the story of an old couple, who are virtually discarded by their son, whose only remaining wish in life is to visit the holy pilgrim place, Mecca. This movie deals with the struggle of a poor perfume seller to collect money to fulfill his wish foe Haj. The film features an original score by Isaac Thomas Kottukapally. The film was released in theatres on 24th June 2011 and had received numerous praises for its story, cinematography, direction and cast from round the globe. When the film was send to the censor, Mumbai, they directly send the copies to National and state film award committee. Salim Kumar as Abu and Zania Wahab as Aishumma plays the major role of the old couple in the movie. Other notable roles are filled by Mukesh, Nedumudi Venu, Kalabhavan Mani, and Suraj Venjarammoodu. The film wsa written, directed and co-prouduced by Salim Ahmed, who made his first time entry into the film industry. Cinematography was by Madhu Ambat, and the film edited by Vijay Shankar.

The film had been a spotlight in both state and National film awards. The awards secured are listed below:

National Awards