New Delhi, September 23: Superstar Mohanlal received a standing ovation as he was conferred with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest film honor, from President Droupadi Murmu at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony in the national capital. The 65-year-old actor, widely celebrated for his contribution to Malayalam cinema, expressed deep gratitude and dedicated the award to the entire Malayalam film industry, describing it as a tribute to its "legacy," "creativity," and "resilience."
During the ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan, Mohanlal humbly remarked, "This moment is not mine alone; it belongs to the entire Malayalam industry. I never imagined this day would come, and I accept this honor on behalf of the pioneers of our industry and our fans." He also thanked the jury members and the Government of India for the recognition.
In his heartfelt speech, Mohanlal said, "Ente aatmavinte spandanam aanu Cinema. Cinema is the heartbeat of my soul." A touching montage showcasing his remarkable cinematic journey over four decades was played during the event, evoking nostalgia and admiration for his work.
Mohanlal, who is the youngest recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award and only the second actor from the Malayalam film industry to receive this honor after Adoor Gopalakrishnan, described the achievement as far beyond personal glory. "This award is not just for me but for all those who have been part of my cinematic journey," he stated.
The actor emphasized that this recognition was a collective tribute to the Malayalam film industry as a whole. "As a representative of Malayalam cinema, I am truly humbled. This is not just an individual accolade, but a reflection of our shared legacy, creativity, and resilience," he added.
Mohanlal further expressed his deep pride in being selected to carry forward the voice of Malayalam cinema through this prestigious award. "When I first received the news, I was overwhelmed—not just by the honor, but by the privilege of representing the traditions of our cinematic culture. This feels like destiny's gentle touch, allowing me to accept this award on behalf of all those who have shaped Malayalam cinema with their vision and artistry," he said.
Describing the moment as "magical and sacred," Mohanlal reflected on how special it was to receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, marking an unforgettable chapter in his illustrious career.
