Ashwini Vaishnaw hails Mohanlal as the ‘real OG’ on receiving Dadasaheb Phalke award

Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw hailed Mohanlal as the “real OG” at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony in Delhi. His remarks drew thunderous applause from the audience. The minister even switched to Malayalam to compliment the actor, saying, “You are a great actor,” which Mohanlal accepted with a warm smile.

“Thanks to the jury for such a thoughtful choice. All the winners truly deserve huge applause. Congratulations to everyone. But today, the loudest applause must go to the ‘real OG’—Mohanlal ji. You are a terrific actor. A true legend! Let’s give him a big round of applause. This sound is not enough… let’s make it louder! Congratulations once again,” Vaishnaw said from the stage.

The event, held at Vigyan Bhavan, saw Mohanlal honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Indian cinema’s highest recognition. President Droupadi Murmu presented the awards. Actor Vijayaraghavan won Best Supporting Actor, while Urvashi bagged Best Supporting Actress.

Among the main categories, Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey were named Best Actors, and Rani Mukerji was declared Best Actress. Shah Rukh won for his performance in ‘Jawan’, Vikrant Massey for ‘12th Fail’, and Rani Mukerji for her role in ‘Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway’.

Malayalam cinema made a strong mark, winning five awards this year. Vijayaraghavan was recognised for ‘Pookkaalam’, Urvashi for ‘Ullozhukku’, which also took home the award for Best Malayalam Film. Mithun Murali won Best Editor for his work in ‘Pookkaalam’, while the non-feature film award went to ‘Nekal’, directed by M.K. Ramdas.