When Mohanlal opened up on why Mammootty is special to him

Back in 2021, Malayalam superstar Mohanlal penned an emotional note for his dear friend and colleague Mammootty on his birthday. Calling him Ichakka with affection, Mohanlal wrote, “Ichakka was born to become an actor through his hard work and dedication…I haven’t seen another actor who has moulded his life in such an amazing fashion.”He went on to praise how Mammootty’s values have been passed down to his children. “MamookKa has passed on the essence of his love to his kids as well; and that is what made Dulquer express his love as if to his own little sister,” Mohanlal noted.According to Mohanlal, what made Mammootty truly special was his consistency as a person. Even with life’s ups and downs, he always treated Mohanlal the same. He described Mammootty as an emotional person who could easily become sad or angry but emphasized that he never carried hatred in his heart. After any outburst, he would always calm down, showing the gentleness of his nature.Mohanlal also fondly recalled the early days of their acting journeys when life was very different. Packed schedules meant that visiting Kerala even once a month was a challenge. During those days, when both were based in Chennai, the two young actors often met, building the foundation of a lifelong friendship.Mohanlal concluded his note with a touching remark that highlighted Mammootty’s outlook on life. Ichakka often said that his biggest hit was not a film, but his family. Mohanlal admitted that he and his family, too, were blessed to experience Mammootty’s incredible love and care.“Like his younger brother, I wish to enjoy his love even if we are far away from each other. For Ichakka, his destiny is to be an actor always, while my fate remains unknown. My Ichakka would be an artist today, tomorrow, and for the rest of his life too,” Mohanlal wrote with deep affection.With over four decades in Malayalam cinema and nearly 800 films between them, both Mammootty and Mohanlal continue to rule the industry with their unrivaled brilliance. But beyond the silver screen, their bond as friends has remained resolute— a rare camaraderie that fans still cherish today.