71st National Film Awards: Mohanlal receives prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award; honors Malayalam cinema

Superstar Mohanlal on September 23, 2025, received the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony for his outstanding contribution to the world of Indian cinema. The award ceremony happened at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. President Droupadi Murmu handed over the prizes to the awardees.


Already a recipient of the Padma Shri (2001) and Padma Bhushan (2019), this latest honor cements Mohanlal's stature as a towering figure in Indian arts. Malayalam actors Urvashi and Vijayaraghavan received awards for Best Supporting actors for the films 'Ullozhukku', and 'Pookkalam' respectively.



Check out the pic here.

During the speech, Sanjay Jaju. The secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said, "For more than 4 decades he has been many men on screen; soldier, poet, and king and yet in the hearts of millions, he always remained Lalettan."

Mohanlal says the award belongs to Malayalam cinema.

Addressing mediapersons earlier, the actor shared the honor with the entire Malayalam film fraternity. “I am happy that Malayalam cinema has received an award in Indian cinema. I am working in the field of Ishwar (God), and that is why I say that the award was given by Ishwar (God). There is also the honesty we show in our work. I share this award with everyone, and I remember those who have passed away,” he said. Recalling the moment he received the news, Mohanlal admitted, “When I got the call from the Prime Minister’s office, I couldn’t believe it at first. I thought it was just a wild dream. So I asked them to tell me again.”

Tributes from Mammootty and many others

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting earlier announced, X: "Mohanlal's remarkable cinematic journey inspires generations! The legendary actor, director, and producer is being honored for his iconic contribution to Indian cinema. His unmatched talent, versatility, and relentless hard work have set a golden standard in Indian film history."

Fellow superstar Mammootty described him as “a true artist who has lived and breathed cinema.” Antony Perumbavoor wrote on Twitter, "Seeing my dearest Mohanlal Sir honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award fills me with immense joy. For those of us who have walked this journey with him, it’s more than an award. It’s a celebration of a lifetime of love and dedication to cinema. Blessed to stand by your side always."


Prime Minister Narendra Modi also praised the actor, stating, “Mohanlal epitomizes excellence and versatility. With a rich body of work spanning decades, he stands as a leading light of Malayalam cinema and theater and is deeply passionate about the culture of Kerala."

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