Rekha Harindran, the lead actress of the film "Checkmate," has been honored with the Kerala Critics Film Award for Best Actor in a Debut Role.

Rekha Harindran, the lead actress of the film "Checkmate," has been honored with the Kerala Critics Film Award for Best Actor in a Debut Role. Biju Menon and Vijayaraghavan jointly received the Best Actor (Male) award for their roles in Garudan and Pookkaalam, while Zarin Shihab and Shivada were honored with the Best Actor (Female) award for their performances in Aattam and Jawanum Mullappoovum, respectively.

Directed by Ratish Sekhar, "Checkmate" stands out as a Mollywood-Hollywood collaboration shot entirely in America. Its impressive cast includes Anoop Menon, Lal, and Rekha Harindran, delivering compelling performances and a gripping storyline.

Rekha is the daughter of late GS Harindran, renowned for establishing Harishree Studios in Kerala during the 80's. The studio served as a launchpad for numerous celebrated artists, including Harishree Asokan, Siddique-Lal duo and NF Varghese, among others.

In 2018, Rekha emerged victorious in the Mrs. India Connecticut pageant, organized by Neelam and Dharmatma Saran of  IFC New York City.  Miss|Mrs|Teen India Pageant is the most authentic pageant in North America.

Reflecting on her win, Rekha expressed her gratitude to the Kerala Film Critics Association for recognizing her talent with such a prestigious accolade. In a statement to EMalayalee, she shared, "Though I've been away from Kerala for over 18 years, the essence of Kerala has always remained within me, much like any Malayali. I am deeply honored to receive this award and dedicate it to my dad, whose dedication to Malayalam cinema continues to inspire me. It feels like Malayalam cinema has serendipitously found its way back to me."

Rekha's portrayal in "Checkmate" not only showcases her acting prowess but also marks her emergence as a promising talent in the Malayalam film industry. As she continues to garner acclaim, audiences eagerly anticipate her future contributions to cinema, enriched by her rich heritage and undeniable talent.

Checkmate, produced by Seed Entertainments, Kerala Times Entertainments and Executive Producers Paul Karukapallil and Lindo Jolly, is scheduled for a theatrical release in Kerala and globally this year.