From Modi to Mammootty: Politicians, stars hail Mohanlal’s cinematic journey after Dadasaheb Phalke win
Industry peers also joined in congratulating the actor.
Industry peers also joined in congratulating the actor.
Industry peers also joined in congratulating the actor.
New Delhi: Malayalam superstar Mohanlal has been named the recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2023, the country’s highest recognition in cinema, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting announced on Saturday. The 65-year-old actor, director, and producer will receive the honour during the 71st National Film Awards ceremony on September 23. The announcement triggered a wave of congratulatory messages from politicians, actors, and industry peers.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Mohanlal’s versatility, saying the actor “epitomises excellence across Malayalam cinema, theatre, and has delivered remarkable performances in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi films. His cinematic and theatrical brilliance across mediums is truly inspiring.”
Mohanlal expressed his gratitude on X, writing: “I am deeply humbled and profoundly honoured to receive The Dadasaheb Phalke Award. My heartfelt gratitude to Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji for your kind words and blessings.”
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan posted: “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.”
Other prominent figures also acknowledged his achievement. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said Mohanlal’s work “has celebrated our culture and magnified our aspirations,” while Rajeev Chandrasekhar called him “a true Malayali icon” whose legacy inspires millions. Congress leader K C Venugopal described the award as a “most fitting recognition of his glorious five-decade journey.”
Kerala’s Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan and Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor praised Mohanlal’s contributions to Malayalam cinema, with Satheesan sharing a collage of the actor’s iconic roles over the decades.
True artist who lived cinema: Mammootty
Industry peers also joined in congratulating the actor. Mammootty, his longtime colleague, said: “More than a colleague, a brother, and an artist who has embarked on this wonderful cinematic journey for decades. The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is not just for an actor, but for a true artist who has lived and breathed cinema. So happy and proud of you, Lal. You truly deserve this crown.”
Director Priyadarshan, who has collaborated with Mohanlal on numerous films, called him “a most deserving legend” and said: “Heartfelt congratulations to my dearest friend Lal on being honoured with the #DadasahebPhalkeAward. No one deserves this recognition more. Proud to see the nation celebrate your extraordinary talent. Grateful to the Jury for recognising and honouring a most deserving legend.”
"Heartiest congratulations, @Mohanlal sir, on being honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. Every time I’ve had the chance to meet you or observe your work, it’s been like sitting in the front row of the greatest acting school ever. This recognition is so richly deserved. Respect and love," Bollywood star Akshay Kumar said.
Mohanlal's long-time ally and producer Antony Perumbavoor said, “Seeing my dearest Mohanlal Sir honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award fills me with immense joy. For those of us who have walked this journey with him, it’s more than an award. It’s a celebration of a lifetime of love and dedication to cinema. Blessed to stand by your side always.”
Actors Tovino Thomas and Aju Varghese also posted messages congratulating the veteran actor.
Meanwhile, actress Khushbu Sundar highlighted that the award “is an honour bestowed upon the Malayalam industry, in fact, the entire South industry.”
Mohanlal has acted in over 350 films across Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and Kannada, spanning more than four decades. Some of his critically acclaimed works include Thanmathra, Drishyam, Vanaprastham, Munthirivallikal Thalirkkumbol, and Pulimurugan. Known for his effortless screen presence and versatility, he has won two National Film Awards for Best Actor, nine Kerala State Film Awards, and numerous international honours.
In addition to acting accolades, Mohanlal was awarded the Padma Shri in 2001 and the Padma Bhushan in 2019 for his contributions to the arts. The Dadasaheb Phalke Award cements his status as one of India’s most celebrated actors, whose work continues to inspire generations.