"Even All the Acting I’ve Learned Cannot Mask This Emotion" : Mohanlal

Thiruvananthapuram: In a celebration steeped in reverence and nostalgia, the state government honoured Mohanlal, recipient of India’s highest cinematic accolade, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. The felicitation, titled ‘Malayalam Vaanolam Lalsalaam’, unfolded in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, the city that cradled the early life of the legendary actor.

As Mohanlal received the honour, his voice trembled with emotion, surpassing even the moment he was recognised in Delhi. 'This is the land where I was born and raised. Its air, its buildings, its roads, its memories, they are all part of my soul. Such emotions cannot be acted out,' he said. 'It is the people of Kerala, the Malayalis, and the government that chose to honour me who now weave this tapestry of feeling around me. Even all the acting I have learned cannot cloak the depth of emotion this evokes.'

Recalling his journey, Mohanlal spoke of the early days when he and a handful of friends dared to make films in the streets of Thiruvananthapuram, unaware of the complex art form called cinema.

'We took trains to Madras, roamed studios, and hesitantly sent a photograph of mine to our beloved Fazil. That is how I first stood in front of a camera as Narendra in ‘Manjil Virinja Pookkal’. Forty-eight years… and even before reaching here, I have been standing behind the lens. If my career were a mighty river, I am but a leaf that fell from a tree upon its banks. Yet every time I threatened to be swept away, hands reached down to lift me, hands guided by brilliance: writers, directors, producers, cinematographers, those who lit my face and my characters, and above all, my beloved Malayalis who watched without rancour.

Every accolade, every step, has been buoyed by those who lovingly called me ‘Laletta’. Even now, adrift in this flowing river of art, whenever I falter, someone lifts me, urging me onward. I am unsure whom to thank, for the generosity has been boundless.”

The veteran actor also reflected on how cinema has allowed him to witness societal changes over the decades. 'An actor is like clay, shaped by directors, writers, and cameramen. I have faced both success and criticism, and I take them equally,' he said.

Mohanlal dedicated the award to society, stating, 'Without the audience, nothing can be achieved. This recognition belongs to them,' while also acknowledging the support of his family and friends.

The Chief Minister received Mohanlal adorned in the traditional ‘ponnada’. On behalf of the Kerala government, the citation penned by poet Prabhavarma was presented by Pinarayi Vijayan, accompanied by singer Lakshmidas, who recited verses from the citation. Mohanlal was also presented with a memento, a scroll, and a painting by renowned artist A Ramachandran.