The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has announced that legendary Malayalam cinema star Mohanlal will be conferred with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2023, India’s highest recognition in the field of cinema. The honour, which celebrates lifetime contributions to Indian cinema, will be presented at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony on September 23, 2025. The decision was made on the recommendation of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award Selection Committee and marks yet another milestone in the actor’s illustrious journey spanning more than four decades.
- PM Modi’s Congratulatory Message on Social Media
- Mohanlal’s Four-Decade Journey Across Languages
- Awards and Recognitions That Mark His Legacy
- Why the Award was Delayed to 2023 Honouree
- The Significance of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award
- Impact Beyond the Screen: Mohanlal as Director and Producer
- Significance of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for Mohanlal
- True Satisfaction Lies Beyond Worldly Success: Spiritual Wisdom of Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj Ji
- FAQs on Mohanlal Receiving the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023
PM Modi’s Congratulatory Message on Social Media
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Mohanlal on X (formerly Twitter), describing him as an ‘epitome of excellence and versatility’. He praised Mohanlal’s rich body of work that has shaped Malayalam cinema and extended into Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Hindi films. PM Modi also lauded his passion for Kerala’s culture and his contribution to theatre, adding that Mohanlal’s cinematic and theatrical brilliance is truly inspiring. ‘May his accomplishments continue to inspire generations to come’, the Prime Minister wrote.
Mohanlal’s Four-Decade Journey Across Languages
Mohanlal’s career is a rare blend of commercial success and critical acclaim. With over 350 films to his credit across Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi cinema, he has become a household name across India. Known for his effortless screen presence and unmatched versatility, Mohanlal has portrayed characters ranging from intense dramas to light-hearted entertainers with equal brilliance.
Some of his most celebrated performances include:
- Thanmathra (a moving portrayal of a man battling Alzheimer’s)
- Drishyam (a blockbuster thriller remade in several languages)
- Vanaprastham (an internationally acclaimed film screened at Cannes)
- Munthirivallikal Thalirkkumbol and Pulimurugan (one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films ever)
This body of work demonstrates how Mohanlal has consistently redefined acting standards in Indian cinema.
Awards and Recognitions That Mark His Legacy
Apart from the upcoming Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Mohanlal has already earned some of India’s most prestigious honours:
- National Film Award( Best Actor) in 1991 and 1999 for Bharatham and Vanaprastham respectively.
- Padma Shri award in 2001 for Contribution to Arts.
- Padma Bhushan award in 2019 for Contribution to Indian Cinema.
- 9-time winner of Kerala State Film Awards in Best Actor and other categories.
These awards reflect not only his acting prowess but also his contributions as a producer and cultural ambassador of Kerala.
Why the Award was Delayed to 2023 Honouree
Although Mohanlal is being honoured for the year 2023, the presentation will take place in September 2025. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the normal schedule of the National Film Awards, causing a two-year delay in several categories, including the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. Last year, veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty received the honour for 2022.
The Significance of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award
Named after Dhundiraj Govind Phalke, popularly known as Dadasaheb Phalke and regarded as the ‘Father of Indian Cinema’, this award is the most prestigious recognition in Indian film. It is given annually by the Government of India to individuals for their outstanding lifetime contribution to cinema. Receiving this honour places Mohanlal in the company of those who have shaped the nation’s cinematic heritage.
Impact Beyond the Screen: Mohanlal as Director and Producer
In addition to his acting, Mohanlal has ventured into direction and production, bringing innovative themes and international collaborations to Malayalam cinema. His initiatives have promoted regional stories on global platforms, strengthening India’s cultural footprint worldwide. His passion for theatre drove him into the preservation of traditional art forms.
Significance of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for Mohanlal
The conferring of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023 on Mohanlal is considered as a big personal triumph. His journey from a debut actor in the early 1980s to a pan-Indian icon has been quoted as an example by many looking to embark on a similar journey.
Though Mohanlal is believed to be a symbol of creative perseverance and cultural pride, credited for inspiring both aspiring actors and seasoned professionals to aim for greatness in their craft, it is important to acknowledge that despite massive worldly success, the most important task of human life remains yet unfulfilled.
Cinema transports one into a hypothetical, pleasing and engaging world, driving us away from the harsh reality of life, momentarily. It is crucial to note, that despite the momentary gratification, all it contributes is precious time lost in the über-limited human life. So, does cinema truly inspire us, or does it blind us to the reality of life and the true purpose of human existence ?
True Satisfaction Lies Beyond Worldly Success: Spiritual Wisdom of Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj Ji
While achievements and worldly success can bring temporary happiness, they never provide lasting satisfaction and peace. Everything materialistic is transient and will eventually end, leaving the mind restless and unfulfilled, just like engaging in cinema. True peace and eternal contentment come through Tatvagyaan (spiritual knowledge) imparted by a Satguru. In the present era,Tatvdarshi Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj Ji is the perfect spiritual guide who helps devotees remain detached from worldly desires, and focus on what is eternal. By following His teachings, one attains Satlok, the eternal abode, ensuring everlasting happiness beyond life and death.
For more insights on eternal spiritual knowledge, visit: www.jagatgururampalji.org
FAQs on Mohanlal Receiving the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023
Q1. Who has been selected for the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023?
Veteran Malayalam actor Mohanlal has been selected for the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023, India’s highest honour in cinema.
Q2. When will Mohanlal receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023?
Mohanlal will be presented with the award at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony on September 23, 2025.
Q3. Why is Mohanlal being honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award?
He is being honoured for his lifetime contribution to Indian cinema, with over 350 films across Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi, showcasing unmatched versatility.
Q4. What are some of Mohanlal’s most acclaimed works?
Some of his celebrated films include Thanmathra, Drishyam, Vanaprastham, Munthirivallikal Thalirkkumbol and Pulimurugan.
Q5. What is the significance of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award?
It is India’s highest recognition in cinema, awarded annually by the Government of India to honour outstanding lifetime contributions to the film industry.
