Ace Malayalam actor Mohanlal has dedicated the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award to the Malayalam film industry, calling the recognition a collective honour for the entire fraternity. Speaking to media persons in Kochi on Sunday (September 21, 2025), the 64-year-old actor said the award is not just his personal achievement but a tribute to the people he has worked with and the audiences who have supported him throughout his illustrious career.
A proud moment for Malayalam cinema
“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 work with in the future,” Mohanlal said. He added that the award, while recognising individual achievement, symbolises the strength and creativity of the Malayalam film industry, which continues to make a mark on Indian cinema.
Humility and commitment
Mohanlal, who has acted in over 400 films during his 48-year career, described the award as “special” and “something that happens only in one’s wildest dreams.” Despite the accolade, he emphasised that there is no pinnacle in cinema. “Cinema has only one language. I am just part of the industry; there is no pinnacle to it. ‘Zenith’ is just a word. So I don’t consider to have reached the pinnacle of anything with an award,” he said.
Reflecting on his journey, the actor credited his colleagues and collaborators for his success. “You cannot do a movie alone; it is the work of many people. To stay in such an industry for 48 years is like being in a circus. I have had the privilege of working with many supportive people along the way.”
Cinema as magic
Calling cinema a “vicious circle” and “magic,” Mohanlal said its unpredictability is what makes it powerful. “When two movies succeed, you are elevated, and when they fail, the opposite happens. That is the nature of cinema,” he explained. Despite the uncertainty, he said his dream is simple: “to be part of good movies and give my best to every role I play.”
Support and celebrations
The announcement of Mohanlal’s award was met with widespread celebration in Kerala. Fellow actors Mammootty and Prithviraj Sukumaran congratulated him, while Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu also extended wishes. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting had announced on Saturday (September 20, 2025) that Mohanlal will be conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2023.
A legacy of excellence
Mohanlal, who has received five National Awards during his career, remains one of India’s most versatile and admired actors. His roles have ranged from intense drama to action and comedy, earning him critical and popular acclaim. Over nearly five decades, he has worked with several master directors and actors, cementing his place as one of the stalwarts of Indian cinema.
Award ceremony on September 23
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award, regarded as the highest honour in Indian cinema, will be presented to Mohanlal at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony in New Delhi on September 23.