In a heartfelt gesture, celebrated actor Mohanlal has proudly dedicated the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award to the entire Malayalam film fraternity. Expressing profound humility and gratitude, he stated, “This is a proud moment, and I cannot enjoy this alone. I’m sharing this with everyone – the audience, the people I have worked with in the past, those I am working with now, and those I will collaborate with in the future.”
Upon his arrival in Kochi on Sunday morning, September 21, 2025, the actor addressed the media, emphasizing that this recognition is a beautiful and significant milestone not just for him but for the entire Indian film industry.
“I am not someone who dreams excessively,” Mohanlal shared. “If you ask about my social commitment, it is simply to portray the roles I am given to the best of my ability. I will always give it my utmost effort. However, filmmaking is never a solitary endeavor; it is the collective work of many dedicated individuals. My hope is that we continue to create excellent films, and that the Malayalam industry flourishes with outstanding cinematic productions. I aspire to remain a part of that journey – that is my ultimate dream.”
Describing the award as “special” and a moment akin to one’s “wildest dreams,” the veteran actor likened the film industry to a divine force in his life, perceiving cinema itself as pure magic.
“Cinema is a captivating, often unpredictable cycle,” he reflected. “It’s a magical realm where nothing can be truly foretold. Success with two films can elevate you, while a failure can bring the opposite. To sustain a career in such an industry for 48 years feels like being part of a grand circus. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have countless supportive individuals alongside me throughout this journey.”
Mohanlal added that he has been privileged to work with many master actors and was blessed with opportunities to play memorable roles. He reiterated that this is a truly beautiful and special moment. “Cinema speaks one universal language. I am merely a part of this vast industry; there is no ultimate ‘pinnacle’ to reach. ‘Zenith’ is just a word. Therefore, I don’t believe any award signifies reaching the absolute peak of anything,” he humbly concluded.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting had announced on Saturday, September 20, 2025, that Mohanlal would receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023, India’s highest honor in cinema. This news was met with widespread joy and celebration across the Kerala film industry.
The prestigious award will be presented at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony on September 23. Throughout his illustrious career, spanning over four decades, Mohanlal has starred in more than 400 films and has been honored with five National Awards.