Legendary Actor Mohanlal is Honoured With The Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023 at the 71st National Film Awards
receiving a standing ovation for his iconic contribution to Indian cinema
New Delhi: Malayalam cinema legend Mohanlal was conferred with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award at the 71st National Film Awards held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, on September 23, 2025. President Droupadi Murmu presented the honour, recognizing his four-decade-long contribution to Indian cinema. Already the recipient of Padma Shri (2001) and Padma Bhushan (2019), this latest accolade reinforces his stature as one of India’s most celebrated actors.
The ceremony also saw Malayalam actors Urvashi and Vijayaraghavan being named Best Supporting Actress and Actor for their performances in Ullozhukku and Pookkalam respectively.
“This award belongs to Malayalam cinema”: Mohanlal
Speaking to the media, Mohanlal dedicated the award to the entire Malayalam film fraternity. “I am happy that Malayalam cinema has received this recognition in the world of Indian cinema. I believe such honours come from God, and whatever honesty we bring to our work is also His blessing. I share this award with everyone who has been part of this journey, and I also remember those who are no longer with us,” he said.
Recalling the moment he was informed, he added, “When I got the call from the Prime Minister’s office, I couldn’t believe it at first. It felt like a dream, so I asked them to repeat it again.”
Tributes pour in for the superstar
During the ceremony, Sanjay Jaju, secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, praised Mohanlal’s legacy saying, “For more than four decades, he has been many men on screen—soldier, poet, and king—yet to millions, he has always remained Lalettan.”
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting also paid tribute on X, writing: “Mohanlal’s remarkable cinematic journey inspires generations! His unmatched talent, versatility, and relentless dedication have set a golden standard in Indian film history.”
Fellow superstar Mammootty called him “a true artist who has lived and breathed cinema.” Producer Antony Perumbavoor celebrated his win with the words: “It’s more than an award, it’s a celebration of a lifetime of love and dedication to cinema. Blessed to walk this journey with him.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi too congratulated the actor, saying, “Mohanlal epitomizes excellence and versatility. With a body of work spanning decades, he stands as a torchbearer of Malayalam cinema and culture.”