Mistry played Dr Fonseca in EastEnders

Mistry, who once called the film industry racist, was honoured at the Emma Awards (Ethnic Multicultural Media Awards) for his role in the movie comedy The Guru.

Other winners included Ms Dynamite, Justin Timberlake, Michael Moore and BBC correspondent Rageh Omaar.

The legendary Stevie Wonder also received a special lifetime achievement award for excellence in the music industry over four decades.

Universal appeal

The ceremony, at London's Grosvenor House Hotel, was attended by the daughter of the civil rights campaigner Martin Luther King.

Yolanda King was invited to collect an honorary award for her father's work tackling racism in the 1960s.

The best TV actor award was won by Cyril Nri, who plays Supt Adam Okaro in the long-running police series The Bill.

Angela Griffin starred in Babyfather

Former Coronation Street star Angela Griffin won best actress winner for her role in the BBC drama Babyfather.

The Kumars at No 42 was selected as the best entertainment programme ahead of nominees including White Teeth and Lenny Henry, This is My Life.

Football movie Bend it Like Beckham was chosen as the best film, although its star Parminder Nagra missed out on the best actress award.

Salma Hayek's portrayal of the tortured Mexican artist Frida Kahlo in the movie Frida won her that award.

Rageh Omaar's saw his profile rise during the Iraq war

US singer Justin Timberlake, who has forged a solo career away from boy band 'NSync, was victorious in the best international music category, cementing his universal appeal.

Brit and Mercury Music Prize winner Ms Dynamite has added yet another award to her trophy cabinet, winning the best British music act.

Reporter Rageh Omaar was named TV news journalist of the year, following his rise in profile during the war on Iraq.