New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram/Kochi, September 21 (ANI): Veteran actor Mohanlal has been selected for the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023, Indian cinema’s highest honour, which will be presented at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony on September 23, 2025. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, which hailed Mohanlal’s remarkable cinematic journey as one that inspires generations. The legendary actor, director, and producer is being honoured for his iconic contribution to Indian cinema, with his unmatched talent, versatility, and relentless hard work having set a golden standard in film history.
Having begun his journey at an early age, Mohanlal has worked extensively in Malayalam cinema while also delivering memorable performances in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi films. With a career spanning more than four decades, he has previously been recognised with the Padma Shri in 2001 and the Padma Bhushan in 2019. On the work front, he will next be seen in Nanda Kishore’s film Vrusshabha.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first to congratulate the actor after the announcement, calling him a symbol of excellence and versatility. In a message on X, PM Modi wrote that Mohanlal’s rich body of work across mediums makes him a leading light of Malayalam cinema and theatre, while also highlighting his passion for the culture of Kerala. The Prime Minister praised his outstanding contributions in other languages as well, stating that his cinematic and theatrical brilliance is truly inspiring and that his accomplishments will continue to motivate future generations.
Union Minister for Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw also expressed pride in Mohanlal’s legacy, writing that from the land of Kerala to audiences worldwide, his body of work has celebrated India’s culture and magnified its aspirations.
Reacting to the announcement, Mohanlal expressed deep humility and gratitude. Taking to X, he said, “I am deeply humbled and profoundly honored to receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. 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.”
Later, speaking to media in Kochi, the actor called the honour a tribute to the entire Malayalam film industry, explaining that since the award is returning to the industry after two decades, it belongs to all the artists who have shaped him. He described the recognition as one of the finest moments of his life, admitting that when he first heard the news, it felt like a dream.
Across the film fraternity, tributes poured in. Superstar Mammootty, calling Mohanlal more than a colleague and a brother, said the award was for an artist who has lived and breathed cinema, and expressed immense pride in his friend’s achievement. Actor Prithviraj Sukumaran called it a well-deserved recognition for a legend beyond ages, while Dulquer Salmaan sent his heartfelt congratulations to “dearest Lalettan.”
Actor-politician Ravi Kishan praised Mohanlal’s contribution to Indian cinema, and Bollywood stars also joined in, with Abhishek Bachchan congratulating him and Akshay Kumar describing the experience of watching Mohanlal perform as like sitting in the front row of the greatest acting school ever. Akshay added that the recognition was richly deserved, sending love and respect to the veteran star.
In another statement, Mohanlal reflected that the honour was not his alone but belonged to everyone who has been part of his journey. “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,” he wrote.
In a career spanning more than forty years, Mohanlal has appeared in films across genres, winning multiple National Awards and building a reputation as one of India’s finest actors. Known primarily for his work in Malayalam cinema, he has also left his mark on Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi films.
With the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Indian cinema’s highest honour, Mohanlal’s journey now stands crowned with one of its most celebrated milestones, marking not just a personal achievement but also a moment of pride for the Malayalam film industry and Indian cinema as a whole.
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