In a momentous announcement that has been celebrated across the nation, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has named legendary actor Mohanlal as the recipient of the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award for the year 2023. As India’s highest honour in cinema, the award recognizes the veteran’s unparalleled four-decade-long career and his profound contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema.
The award will be presented by the President, Droupadi Murmu, at the grand 71st National Film Awards ceremony, which will be held tomorrow, on September 23, 2025, at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. The news has sent waves of jubilation through the Malayalam film industry and his legions of fans, who have long regarded him as a true cinematic titan.
The government’s decision to bestow the Dadasaheb Phalke Award upon Mohanlal comes as a fitting tribute to his prolific body of work. With a career spanning over 40 years, the actor has starred in more than 350 films, earning the moniker “The Complete Actor” for his remarkable versatility. He has seamlessly transitioned between genres, delivering iconic performances in Malayalam blockbusters and critically acclaimed films in Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and Kannada as well.
From his menacing debut as an antagonist in Manjil Virinja Pookkal (1980) to the nuanced and deeply layered roles in films like Thanmathra, Bharatham, and Drishyam, Mohanlal has consistently showcased an effortless screen presence and an unmatched talent for inhabiting his characters. His ability to connect with the masses, even while exploring complex human emotions, has cemented his status as a national treasure. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting stated that the decision was made on the recommendation of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award Selection Committee in recognition of his “iconic contribution to Indian cinema.”
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… https://t.co/yMwNrNHMYm
— Mohanlal (@Mohanlal) September 20, 2025
Mohanlal’s contribution extends far beyond his acting prowess. His work has not only defined Malayalam cinema for generations but has also played a crucial role in bringing it to a wider national and international audience. He has also ventured into production and direction, leaving an indelible mark on every aspect of filmmaking.
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award, named after the “Father of Indian Cinema,” is a lifetime achievement award that honours the greatest legends of the industry. By joining a select list of luminaries, Mohanlal’s achievement is a moment of immense pride for Malayalam cinema, which has long been celebrated for its artistic excellence and narrative depth. He is the second Malayalam actor to receive this honour after the revered director Adoor Gopalakrishnan in 2004, a testament to his unique and lasting impact on the art form.
Beyond his cinematic achievements, Mohanlal has also been honoured with the Padma Shri in 2001 and the Padma Bhushan in 2019 for his contribution to the arts. These accolades, combined with his multiple National Film Awards and Kerala State Film Awards, paint a picture of a career built on consistent excellence and a relentless pursuit of his craft.
The news of the award has been met with a wave of heartfelt congratulations from the highest echelons of power and the entire film fraternity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the actor as an “epitome of excellence and versatility,” while other prominent figures, including his peers and colleagues from across the country, have expressed their joy on social media.
In a humble and moving response, Mohanlal expressed his profound gratitude for the honour. He said that the award is not just for him but for the entire Malayalam film industry and for every single person who has supported him throughout his journey. As he prepares to receive the highest cinematic honour, his journey stands as an inspiring narrative of talent, hard work, and dedication that continues to inspire aspiring artists and cinephiles alike. His legacy is etched in the hearts of millions, and with this award, his contribution to Indian cinema has been officially and permanently recognized as a golden standard for generations to come.
