Veteran Malayalam actor Mohanlal has been presented with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest recognition in cinema, at the 71st National Film Awards for 2023. He becomes only the second personality from Kerala to receive the award, following filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan.
About the Award
Instituted in 1969 in memory of Dadasaheb Phalke, who directed India’s first feature film Raja Harishchandra in 1913, the award recognises lifetime contribution to Indian cinema. Recipients receive a golden lotus medallion, a shawl, and a cash prize of 10 lakh rupees.
Career Beginnings and Rise to Stardom
Mohanlal made his film debut in 1980 with Manjil Virinja Pookkal. Early roles in films like T.P. Balagopalan M.A. and Nadodikattu highlighted his talent in comic and everyman roles, connecting deeply with Kerala audiences. By the mid-1980s, he transitioned to action and heroic roles while continuing to deliver mature performances in Kireedam, Dasharatham, and Amrutham Gamaya.
National Recognition and Pan-Indian Presence
A two-time National Award winner for Best Actor in Bharatham and Vanaprastham, Mohanlal even trained in Kathakali for the latter. His work has extended beyond Malayalam cinema with acclaimed roles in Mani Ratnam’s Iruvar and Ram Gopal Varma’s Company. Later films like Thanmatra and Drishyam reinforced his pan-Indian appeal.
Awards and Honours
In addition to the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Mohanlal has received the Padma Shri, the Padma Bhushan, and an honorary commission as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army.
Legacy and Impact
At 65, with nearly 400 films across five languages, Mohanlal remains one of India’s most respected cultural figures. The Dadasaheb Phalke Award recognises his versatility, enduring contribution, and influence on generations of filmmakers and audiences
