Mohanlal to Receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023: A Celebration of a Legendary Career
Veteran actor Mohanlal has been chosen to receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2023, India’s highest honour in cinema, for his iconic contribution to the film industry over more than four decades. The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting made the announcement, praising his unmatched versatility, relentless dedication, and inspiring journey across multiple languages and genres. The award will be conferred during the 71st National Film Awards ceremony on September 23, 2025.
What is the Dadasaheb Phalke Award?
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award was instituted in 1969 by the Government of India as a lifetime achievement honour, recognising individuals for their outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema. Named after Dhundiraj Govind Phalke—Father of Indian Cinema—it is presented annually at the National Film Awards.
Mohanlal’s Journey: From Thiranottam to Cinematic Icon
Mohanlal’s cinematic voyage began in 1978 with the film Thiranottam, followed soon after by his screen debut in Manjil Virinja Pookkal in 1980. Over the years, he has acted in more than 350–400 films in Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi.
Known for his natural acting style, Mohanlal has delivered memorable performances in films such as Bharatham, Vanaprastham, Spadikam, Drishyam and others. Critics and fans alike often highlight his ability to slip between mainstream, art‐house, dramatic and comedic roles with ease.
Historic Significance: A Malayali Among Giants
Mohanlal becomes only the second Malayali ever to be honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award; the first was legendary filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan.
This recognition is a moment of pride for Kerala and for Malayalam cinema, which has been a fertile ground for powerful storytelling, artistic innovation, and actors who bring emotional depth to their roles. Mohanlal’s win underlines not just his personal achievements but the strength and global reach of regional Indian cinema.
Reactions & Tributes
On hearing the announcement, Mohanlal expressed deep gratitude, dedicating the honour to his audience, film family, and everyone who supported him through the years. He described the award as “deeply personal” and said it was also a proud moment for the Malayalam film industry.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated him, calling him the “epitome of excellence and versatility” and acknowledging his contributions across different languages and formats — film, theatre, etc.
Fellow actors from across the industry also joined in—Mammootty, Prithviraj Sukumaran, Dileep among others lauded him for his artistry, consistency, and the inspiration he offers to new and seasoned actors alike.
When & Where the Award Will Be Given
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023 will be formally presented to Mohanlal during the 71st National Film Awards ceremony on September 23, 2025 in New Delhi. The event, which honours outstanding achievements in Indian cinema for the year 2023, will be presided over by the President of India.
Why This Matters
- Legacy & inspiration: Mohanlal’s versatility across genres has inspired generations of actors and filmmakers.
- Recognition of regional cinema: Highlights how Malayalam film industry continues to impact Indian and global cinema.
- Celebration of dedication: A four‐decade long career marked by risk, reinvention, and consistent audience connection.
- Cultural unity: The award reinforces that Indian cinema is not just Bollywood but many vibrant regional traditions speaking to diverse audiences.
Notable Achievements & Awards So Far
Over the years Mohanlal has collected a long list of honours—five National Film Awards (including Best Actor), multiple Kerala State Film Awards, and prestigious civilian honours like the Padma Shri (2001) and Padma Bhushan (2019). :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Films like Bharatham (which fetched him a National Best Actor), Manichitrathazhu, Drishyam, Pulimurugan, and more recently pan‐Indian successes, have enhanced his reputation beyond regional boundaries.
What Happens Next?
All eyes now on the 71st National Film Awards ceremony where Mohanlal will accept this honour. Media, fans, and film fraternity members will be present to celebrate. It’s also likely that retrospectives of his films, interviews, and tributes will follow—reflecting on his body of work, signature moments, dialogues, and characters that have become part of popular culture.
Conclusion
Mohanlal’s conferment of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2023 is more than just another honour—it is a recognition of a remarkable journey, a celebration of versatility and excellence, a tribute to inspiring millions through stories, emotion and craft. It underscores the rich tradition of Indian, especially Malayalam, cinema, and reminds us of the power of art to unify, uplift and endure.
💳 Zero Joining Fee (Limited period offer)
💳 Earn 7.5% Cashback on every Myntra spends
💳 Earn 5% Cashback on every Flipkart and Cleartrip spends
💳 Get 4% Cashback on Swiggy, PVR, Uber, and Cult.fit
