New Delhi | Mohanlal, the Malayalam superstar behind landmark films such as “Iruvar”, “Vanaprastham” and “Drishyam”, will be honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2023, the country’s highest recognition in the field of cinema, the I&B ministry announced on Saturday.
In a post on X, the Information and Broadcasting Ministry said the actor, director and producer is being honoured on the recommendation of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award Selection Committee for his “iconic contribution to Indian cinema”.
The award will be presented to the 65-year-old during the 71st National Film Awards ceremony on September 23.
“Mohanlal’s remarkable cinematic journey inspires generations… His unmatched talent, versatility, and relentless hard work have set a golden standard in Indian film history,” the ministry said.
With a career spanning more than four decades, Mohanlal has acted in over 350 films across Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi and Kannada.
He made his debut as an antagonist in Fazil’s “Manjil Virinja Pookkal” (1980) and went on to star in critically-acclaimed and commercially-successful films such as “Manichitrathazhu”, “Kireedam”, “Bharatham”, “Thanmathra”, “Company”, “Munthirivallikal Thalirkkumbol” and “Pulimurugan”.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the veteran actor, saying Mohanlal epitomises “excellence and versatility”.
“With a rich body of work spanning decades, he stands as a leading light of Malayalam cinema, theatre and is deeply passionate about the culture of Kerala. He has also delivered remarkable performances in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Hindi films.
“His cinematic and theatrical brilliance across mediums is truly inspiring. Congratulations to him on being conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. May his accomplishments continue to inspire generations to come,” PM Modi said.
Replying to PM Modi’s post, Mohanlal said he is “deeply humbled and profoundly honoured” to receive the prestigious honour.
“My heartfelt gratitude to Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji for your kind words and blessings, they fill me with encouragement and joy. I remain ever indebted to the art of cinema and to all those whose inspiration and support illuminate my journey,” he said.
I&B minister Ashwani Vaishnaw also congratulated the actor and said his legacy will keep inspiring “Bharat’s creative spirit”.
“Congratulations to Lalettan @Mohanlal ji. From the adipoli, beautiful land of Kerala to audiences worldwide, his work has celebrated our culture and magnified our aspirations,” he posted on X.
Shashi Tharoor, senior Congress leader and MP from Thiruvananthapuram, said, “Wonderful news for all fans and admirers of @Mohanlal! As an MP I am proud to lay claim to representing his city… Congratulations to Kerala’s pride, our very own Lal!”
Known for his effortless screen presence and wide range, he has received two National Film Awards for best actor, nine Kerala State Awards and international honours.
In addition to acting honours, Mohanlal was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2001, and the Padma Bhushan in 2019 for his contribution to the arts.
Thiruvananthapuram | Mohanlal, a towering figure in Malayalam cinema, has long been recognised for balancing artistry and mass appeal. His remarkable versatility and captivating screen presence have cemented his place among India’s cinematic icons.
He has been named the recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2023, the country’s highest recognition in the field of cinema, the I&B ministry announced on Saturday.
In a post on 'X', the Information and Broadcasting Ministry said the actor, director and producer is being honoured on the recommendation of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award Selection Committee for his “iconic contribution to Indian cinema”.
The award will be presented to him during the 71st National Film Awards ceremony on September 23.
Born into a traditional family in Pathanamthitta district on May 21, 1960, Mohanlal’s tryst with acting began during his school days in Thiruvananthapuram. He received his first recognition when he was chosen as the best actor in the sixth standard.
His passion for acting grew during his college years, when he met a group of like-minded friends who shared his enthusiasm for theatre and cinema in the early 1970s. These friends, who first spotted his potential, facilitated his entry into films through their own production company, Bharath Cine Group.
His debut film, 'Thiranottam', in which he played a comic role, marked the beginning of his cinematic journey. Although the film was released in just one theatre, it has earned a place in the annals of Malayalam cinema.
Mohanlal’s mainstream acting career took off in the 1980s with the superhit 'Manjil Virinja Pookkal', where he played the villainous Narendran. His nuanced portrayal of a sadistic youngster drew immediate attention from both critics and audiences.
The actor’s rise to superstardom was gradual, shaped by a mix of small and significant roles across diverse films. Collaborations with talented directors and scriptwriters produced numerous hits, helping him carve a unique niche in the hearts of audiences and critics alike.
Blockbusters and critically acclaimed films such as 'His Highness Abdullah', 'Bharatham', 'Midhunam', 'Minnaram', 'Manichitrathazhu', 'Devasuram', 'Narasimham', and 'Aaraam Thampuran' cemented his status as a superstar in Malayalam cinema.
Films like 'Vanaprastham' (1999) and 'Guru' (1997) earned him international recognition.
At the same time, commercial hits including 'Drishyam' (and its sequels), 'Pulimurugan', 'Lucifer', and 'L2: Empuraan' set new box-office records in Malayalam cinema.
The latest addition to his decades-long career, Tharun Moorthy-directed 'Thudarum', released this year, continues his legacy of blockbuster performances.
The 65-year-old actor has also showcased his talent in Tamil and Telugu films. A multiple-time recipient of national and state awards, Mohanlal was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2001 and the Padma Bhushan in 2019. In 2009, he was conferred the honorary rank of lieutenant colonel in the Territorial Army, reflecting his stature beyond the film industry.
New Delhi | Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Mohanlal as a leading light of Malayalam cinema who epitomises excellence and versatility, as he congratulated him on winning the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
"May his accomplishments continue to inspire generations to come," Modi said on X, adding that he has also delivered remarkable performances in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Hindi films.
His cinematic and theatrical brilliance across mediums is truly inspiring, he said.
The prime minister said, "Shri Mohanlal Ji epitomises excellence and versatility. With a rich body of work spanning decades, he stands as a leading light of Malayalam cinema, theatre and is deeply passionate about the culture of Kerala."
The Malayalam superstar has been named the recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2023, the country's highest recognition in the field of cinema, the I&B ministry announced on Saturday.
Thiruvananthapuram | Malayalam Superstar Mohanlal on Saturday expressed his gratitude to the Centre for conferring him with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, saying the honour belongs not only to him but to everyone who has accompanied him on his cinematic journey.
"Truly humbled to receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. This honour is not mine alone; it belongs to every person who has walked alongside me on this journey. To my family, audience, colleagues, friends, and well-wishers, your love, faith, and encouragement have been my greatest strength and have shaped who I am today. I carry this recognition with deep gratitude and a full heart," Mohanlal wrote on social media.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting announced that the actor, director, and producer will be honoured for his iconic contribution to Indian cinema, following the recommendation of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award Selection Committee.
Mohanlal, 65, will receive the award during the 71st National Film Awards ceremony on September 23.
Politicians, fans and film personalities flooded social media with congratulatory messages.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Mohanlal "as a leading light of Malayalam cinema who epitomises excellence and versatility," as he congratulated him on winning the award.
"May his accomplishments continue to inspire generations to come," Modi said on 'X', adding that he has also delivered remarkable performances in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Hindi films.
His cinematic and theatrical brilliance across mediums is truly inspiring, the prime minister said.
Mohanlal responded to Modi's wishes on 'X', saying he is "deeply humbled and profoundly honoured" to receive the award.
"My heartfelt gratitude to Hon’ble PM Modi Ji for your kind words and blessings; they fill me with encouragement and joy. I remain ever indebted to the art of cinema and to all those whose inspiration and support illuminate my journey," he added.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan described the recognition as "truly deserving" and said it brings pride to every Malayali and the nation.
"Congratulations to @Mohanlal on being honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. A truly deserving recognition for his extraordinary contributions to Indian cinema. This proud moment brings joy to every Malayali and to our nation as a whole," Vijayan said on 'X'.
Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan, in a statement, called Mohanlal the "pride of Malayalam," adding, "He is an actor who has amazed Malayalis and the world for more than four and a half decades with his natural and unique acting style."
Actor Mammootty praised his longtime colleague and friend on Facebook, saying, "More than a colleague, a brother, and an artist who has embarked on this wonderful cinematic journey for decades. The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is not just for an actor, but for a true artist who has lived and breathed cinema. So happy and proud of you, Lal. You truly deserve this crown."
Actress Manju Warrier shared a photo of Mohanlal on social media, writing, "Thank you for inspiring generations! Our very own."
Actress Urvashi and directors Fasil and Kamal also congratulated the actor.
"I am so happy and excited to hear this news. He is an actor who really deserves it. It is a recognition for Malayalam cinema," Urvashi told a TV channel.
While receiving accolades from across the country, Mohanlal told a TV channel, "I just came to know about it... I don't know what to say. I am so happy. First, I thank the Government of India and the jury for selecting me for the honour."
"It's a great honour. It's a recognition for Malayalam cinema. I share this honour with everyone who loves me," he added.
With a career spanning more than four decades, Mohanlal has acted in over 350 films across Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and Kannada cinema.
The ministry said his "remarkable cinematic journey, unmatched talent, versatility, and relentless hard work have set a golden standard in Indian film history."