Mammootty, Prithviraj celebrate Mohanlal’s Dadasaheb Phalke Award win

The Malayalam film industry is celebrating after veteran actor Mohanlal was named the recipient of the 2023 Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest honor in cinema. The recognition makes Mohanlal only the second Malayalee to receive the award, after filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan in 2004.

Sharing his first reaction, Mohanlal described the award as both a personal milestone and a moment of pride for Malayalam cinema. “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.

The actor added that he accepted the honour with “utmost joy,” remembering his parents, mentors, and fellow artists who shaped his journey. The award will be formally presented to him by the President of India at a ceremony in Delhi on September 23.

Tributes poured in from colleagues and political leaders alike. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan called it an achievement that brings honor not just to Malayalam cinema but to Kerala as a whole, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Mohanlal as an artist who “epitomises excellence and versatility.”

Mohanlal’s long-time collaborator Mammootty shared a message on X, writing, “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 congratulated the star, posting on Instagram: “Congratulations chetta on the Dadasaheb Phalke Award! A truly well-deserved recognition for a legend beyond ages!”