The city of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, glowed with pride as the state government felicitated Malayalam cinema legend Mohanlal for his prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest cinematic honor, conferred on September 23, 2025, at the 71st National Awards in New Delhi. The event, titled Malayalam Vanolam Lalsalam, was held at a packed venue in the actor’s hometown, where Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan presented Mohanlal with a citation penned by renowned poet Prabha Varma. The ceremony was a celebration of Mohanlal’s monumental contributions to Indian cinema, reflecting his journey from a dreamer in Thiruvananthapuram to a national icon.

Mohanlal, visibly moved during his address, shared nostalgic memories of his early days, recalling how he and a group of friends, with little knowledge of filmmaking, dared to dream big in the world of cinema. “I stand here with even greater emotional weight than when I received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award because Thiruvananthapuram is where I was born and raised,” he said, his voice heavy with emotion. He expressed deep gratitude to his peers and supporters, noting that “whenever I was about to sink, someone always lifted me up.” Mohanlal also acknowledged the evolution of art forms, crediting his growth to the dynamic nature of cinema and the unwavering support of his audience.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan hailed Mohanlal as a cultural cornerstone of Kerala, emphasizing the pride of honoring him in his hometown. In a post on X, Vijayan wrote, “Few artists have captured the hearts of Malayalis across the globe the way Mohanlal has. His unforgettable roles have become part of our cultural memory.” The Chief Minister lauded Mohanlal’s versatility and impact, describing the felicitation as a “proud moment” for Kerala. The citation presented to Mohanlal, crafted by Prabha Varma, encapsulated his contributions not just to Malayalam cinema but to the broader Indian film industry, where his roles in films like Drishyam, Vanaprastham, and Iruvar have earned critical and commercial acclaim.

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The Dadasaheb Phalke Award, presented by President Droupadi Murmu at Vigyan Bhawan, marked a pinnacle in Mohanlal’s illustrious career, which spans over four decades and includes more than 400 films. The ceremony saw a standing ovation as Mohanlal, accompanied by his wife Suchitra Mohanlal, accepted the honor, with Suchitra visibly emotional during the moment. The award recognized Mohanlal’s unparalleled ability to embody diverse characters, from intense dramas to light-hearted comedies, cementing his status as a household name. Currently, the actor is working on Drishyam 3, the next chapter in the beloved thriller franchise, further showcasing his enduring relevance in Indian cinema.

The Malayalam Vanolam Lalsalam event was more than a felicitation; it was a testament to Mohanlal’s deep connection with Kerala and its people. Fans and dignitaries alike gathered to celebrate an artist whose work has transcended regional boundaries, making him a global ambassador for Malayalam cinema. As Mohanlal continues to inspire with his craft, this honor underscores his legacy as a visionary who turned dreams into timeless stories on the silver screen.

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