Thiruvananthapuram, March 28 (IANS) Gone are the days when Malayalam films used to walk away with top honours at the National Film Awards whose 63rd edition was announced on Monday.

The Malayalam filmdom just about managed to stay afloat this year, bagging the best music director, best child artiste and a special mention for acting in the feature films category.

It also bagged a few distinctions in the non-feature category.

Music director M. Jayachandran bagged the best music director award for the song 'Kathuirunnae Kathuirunnae' in the blockbuster film 'Ennu Ninte Moideen'.

"This is the most cherished day for me and I submit this award to God, as I have always felt music is divine," said Jayachandran.

Gaurav Menon was adjudged the best child artiste for his poignant portrayal as a 10-year-old boy undergoing emotional trauma in the film 'Ben'.

Actor Jayasurya was nominated for a special mention for his two roles in the films 'Su.. Su... Sudhi Vathmeekam' and 'Lukka Chuppi'.

"I am hugely fortunate that I have been able to do a good number of roles," said Jayasurya.

The best film on environment was bagged by 'Valiya Chirakulla Pakshikal' (Birds with large wings) directed by Biju. The film is based on the environmental disaster caused by the misuse of endosulfan pesticide in Kasaragod district of Kerala.

In the non-feature section 'Amma' directed by journalist Neelan won a special mention; Christo Tony who directed the short film 'Kamuki' won the best film.

Last year Malayalam films had got just four awards but none was there in the frontline category

National Film Awards: Malayalam filmdom just stays afloat