"It’s a surreal moment."
Mohanlal has been a key figure in Indian cinema for over four decades.
The star has appeared in over 400 films across the Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, and Kannada movie industries.
To honour his staggering body of work, the Indian government will confer Mohanlal with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award on September 23, 2025.
Named after the founder of Indian cinema, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award is India’s highest honour in films.
The award was first given to Devika Rani in 1969.
Over the years, its previous recipients have included Asha Bhosle, Dilip Kumar, and Rajinikanth.
Its most recent winner was the Bollywood veteran star, Mithun Chakraborty.
Reacting to the honour, Mohanlal commented: “Extremely happy. Thank you all for all the love.
“It’s a surreal moment. Never expected it.”
Several people congratulated the actor for receiving the prestigious accolade.
The Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, wrote: “Shri Mohanlal Ji epitomises excellence and versatility.
“With a rich body of work spanning decades, he stands as a leading light of Malayalam cinema, theatre and is deeply passionate about the culture of Kerala.
“He has also delivered remarkable performances in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Hindi films.
“His cinematic and theatrical brilliance across mediums is truly inspiring.
“Congratulations to him on being conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
“May his accomplishments continue to inspire generations to come.”
Shri Mohanlal Ji epitomises excellence and versatility. With a rich body of work spanning decades, he stands as a leading light of Malayalam cinema, theatre and is deeply passionate about the culture of Kerala. He has also delivered remarkable performances in Telugu, Tamil,… https://t.co/4MWI1oFJsJ pic.twitter.com/P0DkKg1FWL
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 20, 2025
The Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan, added: “Congratulations to Mohanlal on being honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
“A truly deserving recognition for his extraordinary contributions to Indian cinema.
“This proud moment brings joy to every Malayali and to our nation as a whole.”
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said: “Mohanlal’s remarkable cinematic journey inspires generations!
“The legendary actor, director, and producer is being honoured for his iconic contribution to Indian cinema.
“His unmatched talent, versatility, and relentless hard work have set a golden standard in Indian film history.”
“The award will be presented at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony on September 23, 2025.”
Beginning his career with Manjil Virinja Pookkal (1980), Mohanlal is also the recipient of five National Awards.
In 2009, he was the first Indian actor to be awarded with the honorary rank of lieutenant colonel in the Territorial Army.
With the conferral of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Mohanlal’s fame and achievements are only growing.
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