Mohanlal, one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated actors, has been named the recipient of the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2023. The honour, announced by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Saturday evening, will be presented at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony in Delhi.
On the recommendation of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award Selection Committee, the Government of India is pleased to announce that Shri. Mohanlal will be conferred the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023.
— Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (@MIB_India) September 20, 2025
Mohanlal’s remarkable cinematic journey inspires generations! 🌟
The… pic.twitter.com/n1L9t5WQuP
The Malayalam superstar, who has enthralled audiences with his versatility across Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi films, expressed gratitude on X as he found himself profoundly honoured to receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. He expressed his gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji for his blessings. “I remain ever indebted to the art of cinema and to all those whose inspiration and support illuminate my journey,” he concluded.
Truly humbled to receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. This honour is not mine alone, it belongs to every person who has walked alongside me on this journey. To my family, audience, colleagues, friends, and well wishers, your love, faith, and encouragement have been my greatest…
— Mohanlal (@Mohanlal) September 20, 2025
Prime Minister Modi also lauded the actor’s legacy. “Shri Mohanlal Ji epitomises excellence and versatility. With a rich body of work spanning decades, he stands as a leading light of Malayalam cinema and theatre and is deeply passionate about the culture of Kerala. His brilliance across mediums is truly inspiring,” he posted.
Shri Mohanlal Ji epitomises excellence and versatility. With a rich body of work spanning decades, he stands as a leading light of Malayalam cinema, theatre and is deeply passionate about the culture of Kerala. He has also delivered remarkable performances in Telugu, Tamil,… https://t.co/4MWI1oFJsJ pic.twitter.com/P0DkKg1FWL
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 20, 2025
The announcement prompted an outpouring of admiration from the film fraternity. Mammootty, Mohanlal’s longtime friend and contemporary, described him as “more than a colleague, a brother,” adding that the award recognises not just an actor but a true artist who has lived and breathed cinema. Prithviraj Sukumaran, who directed him in L2 Empuraan, called him a “legend beyond ages.”
Bollywood stars also joined the celebrations. Akshay Kumar shared on X, “Every time I’ve had the chance to meet you or observe your work, it’s been like sitting in the front row of the greatest acting school ever. This recognition is so richly deserved.”
Heartiest congratulations, @Mohanlal sir, on being honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
— Jolly Mishra – Asli Jolly from Kanpur (@akshaykumar) September 20, 2025
Every time I’ve had the chance to meet you or observe your work, it’s been like sitting in the front row of the greatest acting school ever.
This recognition is so richly deserved.… pic.twitter.com/XovwKFTHDU
Manju Warrier, Mohanlal’s Kanmadam co-star, wrote, “Congratulations Laletta! Thank you for inspiring generations.” Producer Antony Perumbavoor, who began his career as Mohanlal’s chauffeur, described the award as a celebration of a lifetime of dedication.
The most heartfelt tribute came from his daughter Vismaya, who posted a collage of his iconic roles on Instagram, writing, “Congratulations Acha. We’re all so proud of you for the incredible artist and human you are.”
Fans last saw Mohanlal in the Onam release Hridayapoorvam. He is also set for a surprise cameo in Priyadarshan’s upcoming film Haiwaan alongside Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan.
