Malayalam cinema elevated to new heights

A PROUD moment for the Malayalam cinema, Kerala and Malayalees world over. 

Mohanlal was conferred with the Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award, India’s highest honour in cinema, on Tuesday, September 23. 

The award was presented by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. 

Conferring the prestigious award, the President said that he has not only showcased his exceptional talent but also upheld India's cultural ethos through his vast body of work.

In his acceptance speech, the veteran actor said cinema was “the beating heart of my soul, which empowers my art and creativity.”

Mohanlal significantly contributes to and elevates Malayalam cinema, a fact acknowledged by his nickname "The Complete Actor," numerous awards, landmark film successes like Drishyam and Pulimurugan, and the latest accolades, such as the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his career-spanning excellence and influence. 

His work, including critically acclaimed performances in films such as Kireedam and Bharatham, has earned him international recognition and the respect of his peers and audiences.  

With a career spanning almost five decades and over 360 films, Mohanlal's enduring presence has solidified his status as a cultural icon in Kerala and beyond. 

His performances in non-Malayalam films like Mani Ratnam's Iruvar and Ram Gopal Varma's Company have also garnered international acclaim.

Mohanlal said he is dedicating the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award to Malayalam cinema. 

“I speak with a deep sense of humility and gratitude here. This is a proud moment and I cannot enjoy this alone. I’m sharing this with everyone, the audience, the people I have worked with in the past, the ones I am working with in the present and those I will work with in the future,” Mohanlal said.

“The award is for the entire Indian film industry,” he said.

“I am not a person who dreams a lot. If you were to ask me what my social commitment is, I would say that it is to attempt to play the roles I am being given in the best possible manner. I will give it my best try. But you cannot do a movie alone; it is the work of many people. I pray that we get to make good movies and that good movies are made in the Malayalam industry. I just want to be a part of that. That is my dream,” said the actor.

Calling the award ‘special’ and likening the moment to something that will only happen in one’s wildest dreams, the actor said the industry he works with is like ‘God‘ for him and that cinema is like magic.

“Cinema is a vicious circle. It is magic. We cannot predict anything about it. When two movies turn into a success, it elevates you, and when they fail, it is the opposite. To stay in such an industry for 48 years is like being in a circus. And I have had the privilege of having many supportive people along with me in that journey,” he said.

Adding that he had the privilege of working with many master actors and was lucky enough to play good roles, the actor said this is a beautiful and special moment. 

“Cinema has only one language. I am just part of the industry; there is no pinnacle to it. ‘Zenith’ is just a word. So I don’t consider having reached the pinnacle of anything with an award,” he added.

The World Malayalee Voice joins the multitudes, including fans, fellow actors, film personalities and political leaders, for Mohanlal’s vast contributions and versatility in Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Hindi cinema.

You are a shining star. Your talent and perseverance have shone brightly, and your hard work and talent have been rightfully acknowledged, earning you this prestigious award. Your dedication to excellence is truly inspiring. Malayalees are proud of your unique talent and vision.

Congratulations!"
   
    -