Superstar Mohanlal received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award at the 71st National Film Awards in New Delhi for his huge contributions to Indian cinema. The ceremony was held on September 23, 2025, at Vigyan Bhawan, and President Droupadi Murmu presented the award. A video celebrating Mohanlal’s long and successful career was also shown during the event.
Mohanlal Dedicates Award to Malayalam Cinema
In an emotional acceptance speech, Mohanlal expressed his gratitude and dedication to the Malayalam film industry, saying, “It’s a profound ride and gratitude to have received the award,” he said. Acknowledging his roots, he added, “As a representative of the Malayalam film industry, I am deeply humble to be the youngest and only the second ever from the state to be bestowed with this national recognition. This moment is not for me alone, it belongs to the entire Malayalam film industry.” The actor opened up on the overwhelming feeling when he first heard the news: “I was overwhelmed not merely by the honour but by the privilege of being able to carry forward the voice of our cinematic tradition.”
Also Read: 71st National Film Award: When and where to watch, list of winners and more about the ceremony
Quoting Kumaranasan’s poem Veenapoovu, Mohanlal described the moment as “magical and sacred,” adding, “This flower did not merely fall into the dust, it lived a life of beauty.” Adding: “I never dared to dream of this, not even in my wildest dreams.” Concluding his speech, he said, “Cinema is the heartbeat of my soul. Jai Hind.”
On the work front, Mohanlal was recently seen in the heartwarming drama ‘Hridayapoorvam’, directed by Sathyan Anthikad.
