At 65, Malayalam cinema legend Mohanlal has etched his name in history by becoming the youngest-ever recipient of the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award. The honor, considered the highest recognition in Indian cinema, was presented to him during the 71st National Film Awards held in New Delhi on September 23rd, 2025. It marks not just a personal milestone for Mohanlal, but a moment of immense pride for the Malayalam film industry as a whole.
In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Mohanlal humbly stated that while the award bears his name, it truly belongs to the collective talent and legacy of Malayalam cinema. He also acknowledged the significance of being only the second person from Kerala to receive the award, following in the footsteps of renowned filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan, who was honored in 2004.
The evening featured a specially curated short film chronicling Mohanlal’s extraordinary cinematic journey – a career that began with Thiranottam in 1978 and blossomed into an iconic presence spanning over 350 films. With roles in Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and Kannada, Mohanlal has continually reinvented himself, leaving behind a trail of unforgettable performances.
Throughout his career, Mohanlal has been recognized with numerous accolades, including five National Film Awards and nine Kerala State Film Awards. His ability to convey deep emotion with subtlety, his command over dialogue, and his effortless screen presence have made him not just a superstar, but a beloved figure across generations.
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award adds yet another jewel to an already remarkable crown – celebrating not only a prolific actor, but a cultural icon whose legacy continues to inspire millions.