'Mohanlal became a superstar because he never acted in Adoor's films:' Actor Baiju

Kochi: Actor Baiju Santhosh’s comment against filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan has gone viral amid ongoing discussions about the government-organised event ‘Vaanolam Malayalam Laal Salaam’, held to honour Dadasaheb Phalke Award winner Mohanlal.

Reacting to a video that featured both Adoor’s remarks and Mohanlal’s response, Baiju commented, “Mohanlal became a superstar because he never acted in his films.” His statement quickly went viral, with users commenting, “Baiju killed it!” and “This is the perfect reply to Adoor.” Fans widely appreciated Baiju’s strong stand in support of Mohanlal, calling it a fitting response in the ongoing debate.

The controversy began after a video circulated online showing Adoor’s speech at the event, Mohanlal’s witty reaction, and a resurfaced clip of Adoor’s earlier comments about the actor. At the ceremony, Adoor said that when he received the same award two decades ago, there had been no such public celebration.

He also noted that the present government and the Chief Minister had taken special interest in honouring Mohanlal. His remarks drew criticism on social media, with many accusing him of once again targeting the actor.

Mohanlal, who spoke immediately after Adoor, gave a humorous reply that drew applause from the audience. “I thank Adoor sir, who spoke about me for the first time… or rather, has spoken about me several times before,” he said with a smile.

Following the event, a clip from one of Adoor’s old interviews also resurfaced online. In it, the filmmaker explained why he had never cast Mohanlal in his films. “Mohanlal has a strong image, that of a good-hearted rowdy. I cannot take such a role. I do not believe in the concept of a good rowdy. A rowdy is a rowdy. How can a rowdy be good?” Adoor had said at the time.