Thiruvananthapuram, March 1: Superstar Mammootty is delighted that his son Dulquer Salman beat him at his own trade, by edging him out at the Kerala State Film Awards 2015, which were announced here on Tuesday.

\"He is elated and feels proud of me. He hugged me and kissed me,\" said Salman when asked about his superstar father\'s reaction.

Salman, his father and Jayasurya were engaged in a race and at the end, the jury headed by veteran director Mohan zeroed down on Salman for his role in the film \"Charlie\".

Interacting at his home in Kochi, Salman said he is very happy and excited as the award appears to have come early. He dedicated the award to his colleagues in the industry.

\"I have always felt that others act better than me and of late it is to be noted that the jury has been promoting youth,\" said Salman, who was excited as he spoke to reporters.

The awards were announced here by State Minister for Films Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan.

Mammootty came very close to bag the award for his role in the film \"Pathemaari\", which portrays the trials and tribulations of a hardworking non-resident Keralite.

\"The joy and happiness of seeing my name alongside with my father\'s is certainly exciting,\" added Salman.

\"Charlie\" won a handful of awards including Best Actor, Best Actress and Best Director, while \"Ennum Ninte Moideen\" won the biggest blockbuster title of 2015.

Dulquer beats father Mammootty in race for Kerala State film award