Kochi, Sep 6

Malayalam superstar Mammootty's 64th birthday on Monday will also see the expansion of his project aimed at making Kerala a cataract-free state by 2020.

Under the 'Vision 2020' project, titled 'Kaazhcha' (Sight), over 5,000 people have been screened so far and around 800 people have undergone cataract surgery for free since last year.

The star, known for his charity initiatives, has joined hands for this project with award winning ophthalmologist Tony Fernandes, whose hospital is undertaking the screenings and surgeries.

Speaking to IANS, Jibin George of the Tony Fernandes Eye Hospital said the surgeries were done at three hospitals.

Now the hospital staff will go to every school to screen children, he said.

"In the first round, schools in Ernakulam and Alappuzha districts will be covered," said George.

Mammootty, a three-time National Award winner, has completed 35 years as a professional actor, with more than 350 films in all the south Indian languages besides Hindi.