September 21, 2025

Lights, camera, celebration! The Malayalam film world is buzzing with joy as the legendary Mohanlal scoops the 2023 Dadasaheb Phalke Award – India's highest honor in cinema. This makes Mohanlal only the second Malayalee to win this coveted award, after filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan in 2004. Mohanlal expressed his heartfelt thanks, calling it a big moment not just for him but for Malayalam cinema too. "I am grateful to the film family and the audience who made me what I am today. This award is a recognition I can give back to those who have loved me throughout my 48-year cinema career," he said. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Mohanlal shared, "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…" He accepted this grand honor with “utmost joy,” remembering his parents, mentors, and fellow artists who shaped his path. The award ceremony will happen on September 23 in New Delhi, where the President of India will present this coveted trophy. Tributes started pouring in fast and furious! Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said it brings glory not only to Malayalam cinema but to the entire state. Adding more star power, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Mohanlal “an artist who epitomises excellence and versatility.” Mohanlal’s longtime co-star Mammootty posted on X: "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." Actor-filmmaker Prithviraj Sukumaran also joined the chorus of cheers on Instagram: "Congratulations chetta on the Dadasaheb Phalke Award! A truly well-deserved recognition for a legend beyond ages!" This big win is not just an award; it's a sparkling moment in the history of Malayalam and Indian cinema. Time to pop the popcorn and celebrate Mohanlal’s legendary journey!

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Tags: Mohanlal, Dadasaheb phalke award, Malayalam cinema, Indian cinema, Narendra modi, Mammootty,