Which Malayalam actor, honoured with the title 'Bharat', won the first-ever National Film Award for Best Actor in 1978 for his searing performance in 'Kodiyettam'?

• A Prem Nazir
• B M.G. Soman
• C Thilakan
• D Gopi ✓

Bharat Gopi (1937-2008) revolutionised Malayalam cinema with his naturalistic acting style, and his role in Kodiyettam (Ascent) won the inaugural National Award for Best Actor.