Kerala Government Felicitates Mohanlal in Grand ‘Malayalam Vaanolam, Lal Salam’ Programme

Thiruvananthapuram: Malayalam cinema legend Mohanlal, recently honoured with the nation’s highest film accolade, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, was felicitated by the State Government at the special programme Malayalam Vaanolam, Lal Salam. Inaugurating the event, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan lauded the actor’s monumental contribution to cinema and his timeless bond with the hearts of Malayalis.

The Dadasaheb Phalke Award, presented to Mohanlal by the President of India on September 23, recognises his exceptional contribution to Indian cinema. Mohanlal is only the second Malayali to receive the honour, after filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan in 2004. “Alongside legendary figures like Satyajit Ray, Raj Kapoor, and Amitabh Bachchan, this priceless seat of honour is now held by Malayalam’s own star,” the Chief Minister said, emphasising the significance of this recognition for both the actor and Malayalam cinema.

CM Vijayan recalled the historic ties between Malayalam arts and Indian cinema, noting how Raja Ravi Varma had supported Dadasaheb Phalke in making his first film. “By receiving Phalke’s blessing, Mohanlal assumes the throne of Indian cinematic artistry,” he remarked.

The Chief Minister praised Mohanlal’s remarkable career spanning 48 years, beginning with Thiranottam in 1978. “The characters he has created over the last half- century have left a profound emotional imprint on the Malayalam viewer,” Vijayan said. Highlighting his versatility, he pointed to iconic films such as Chithram, Kireedam, Bharatham, and Vanaprastham, and applauded his natural flair, expressive acting, and ability to capture Malayalis’ lives and emotions on screen.

Vijayan also stressed that Mohanlal’s recognition is a celebration of Malayalam cinema itself. “This award honours the immense contributions of Mohanlal, whose extraordinary talent has fostered the growth of Indian cinema. It is a source of pride for every Malayali,” he said.

Mohanlal’s national and international contributions were also highlighted, including his acclaimed performance in Vanaprastham and his pan-Indian presence through films in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi. The Chief Minister lauded his dual role as an actor and producer, noting the success of his production ventures under Pranavam Arts and Aashirvad Cinemas.

Pinarayi Vijayan said, “For nearly half a century, Mohanlal has created achievements that every Malayali will forever be proud of. The State Government congratulates this legendary star of Malayalam cinema and wishes him continued success in reaching even greater heights.”

Ministers G R Anil, Saji Cheriyan, K N Balagopal, A A Rahim MP, MLAs M V Govindan and Antony Raju, film directors Adoor Gopalakrishnan and Joshi, actresses Ambika and Ranjini, State Film Development Corporation Chairman K Madhu, State Film Workers’ Welfare Board Chairman K Madhupal, Film Academy Chairman Prem Kumar, and T K Rajeevkumar, along with other prominent figures from political, cultural, and social fields, attended the event.