Malayalam cinema icon Mohanlal has been chosen for the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023 for his extraordinary contribution to Indian cinema, the Government of India announced on Saturday.
The accolade, regarded as the highest honour in Indian filmmaking, will be conferred during the 71st National Film Awards ceremony on September 23, 2025.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting hailed Mohanlal’s career on social media, stating:
“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.
His remarkable cinematic journey inspires generations. The legendary actor, director, and producer is being honoured for his iconic contribution to Indian cinema.
His unmatched talent, versatility, and relentless hard work have set a golden standard in Indian film history.”
Mohanlal, who debuted in 1978 with the Malayalam film Thiranottam, has since appeared in over 400 films across multiple languages.
The actor, also a Padma Shri (2001) and Padma Bhushan (2019) awardee, has earned five National Film Awards, including two Best Actor honours, along with nine Kerala State Film Awards.
His most celebrated performances include roles in Namukku Paarkan Munthirithoppukal, Kireedam, Bharatham, Vanaprastham, and Manichithrathazhu.
While primarily a Malayalam cinema stalwart, Mohanlal has also shone in Tamil, Hindi, and Telugu films like Iruvar (1997), Company (2002), and Janatha Garage (2016).
He is the face of the globally acclaimed Drishyam franchise, which has been remade across several languages, with a third installment underway.
Recently, Mohanlal starred in his biggest blockbuster to date, L2: Empuraan, directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, which grossed over ₹260 crore worldwide, setting a new benchmark in Malayalam cinema. Beyond acting, he has contributed as a producer, distributor, playback singer, theatre artist, television host, and author, reflecting his versatility in the arts.
Past recipients of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award include stalwarts like Mithun Chakraborty, Waheeda Rehman, and Asha Parekh.
The award carries a Swarna Kamal (Golden Lotus) medallion, a ceremonial shawl, and a cash prize of ₹10 lakh, and was first awarded to Devika Rani, the celebrated ‘First Lady of Indian cinema.’
Mohanlal’s recognition cements his legendary stature in Indian cinema, honoring a career defined by artistic excellence, innovation, and enduring influence.
