Veteran actor Mohanlal, celebrated for his four-decade career in over 360 films, received the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest cinematic honor, from President Droupadi Murmu at the 71st National Film Awards in Vigyan Bhawan on Tuesday. The 65-year-old Malayalam cinema icon described the moment as “magical and sacred,” dedicating the accolade to the Malayalam film industry and its discerning audiences. Mohanlal, only the second recipient from Kerala after filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan in 2004, expressed deep gratitude and responsibility upon becoming the youngest awardee.
In an emotional acceptance speech, Mohanlal said he never imagined receiving such an honor, calling it beyond his “wildest dreams.” He viewed the award as a collective tribute to Malayalam cinema’s creativity, resilience, and legacy. “This moment is not mine alone; it belongs to the Malayalam cinema fraternity,” he stated, thanking the Central Government, President Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and the jury. Quoting poet Kumaran Asan, he honored the industry’s pioneers and audiences, likening their contributions to a “fragrance that continues to inspire.”
Mohanlal’s illustrious career began with his debut as an antagonist in “Manjil Virinja Pookkal” (1980), followed by iconic roles in films like “Manichitrathazhu,” “Kireedam,” “Vanaprastham,” and “Drishyam.” His versatility, spanning intense dramas to commercial hits like “Pulimurugan,” has earned him five National Awards and a unique place in Indian cinema.
President Murmu praised his ability to portray both “the softest and toughest emotions naturally,” citing his performances in serious works like “Vanaprastham” and popular films, as well as his role as Karna in a Sanskrit play based on the Mahabharata.
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The ceremony underscored Mohanlal’s widespread appeal, with Murmu noting the wave of joy among fans upon his award announcement. A Padma Shri (2001) and Padma Bhushan (2019) recipient, Mohanlal’s journey from a traditional family in Pathanamthitta to superstardom reflects his dedication to the craft.
His collaborations with acclaimed directors and scriptwriters have cemented his legacy, making the Dadasaheb Phalke Award a fitting recognition of his contributions to Indian cinema.
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