Malayalam superstar Mohanlal dedicated the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest cinematic honour, to Indian cinema and its audiences, saying, “Today cinema has no boundaries – it has become pan-Indian.”
A day after being named as the recipient of the country’s highest honor in the field of cinema for 2023, the actor recalled that when he got a call from the Prime Minister’s Office to inform him about the award, he was in disbelief.
“I thought it was a strange dream. I even asked him to repeat it,” Mohanlal said at a press conference in Kochi on Sunday.
The superstar attributed the honor to the collective efforts of the film industry and the unwavering support of the audience throughout his career.
Mohanlal said, “This is not just my award – it is an honor for Indian cinema. I thank God for this honour. Any work should be done with honesty and dedication, and many people have helped me along the way. I share this honor with all of them.”
He described the field in which he works as his God.
The actor said, “So I say this award is God-given. There is integrity in the work we do. I share this award with everyone. I am not someone who carries criticism on my shoulders; this moment is memorable.”
Mohanlal, who has completed 48 years in films, said he is fortunate to have got the opportunity to work with some of the greatest names in the industry and the honor is behind his blessings.
He also recalled meeting his ailing mother on Sunday morning to share the news. Mohanlal said, “He blessed me after hearing this news. His prayers are also behind this award.”
Mohanlal, who began shooting for Drishyam 3 on Monday, admitted that he initially found it difficult to believe the announcement.
Calling cinema both “magic” and a “circus”, which he has been a part of for almost five decades, the actor stressed the need for more good films. “I will continue to be a part of that collective effort,” he said.
Mohanlal marked the occasion by cutting the cake with his colleagues, and his friends and well-wishers gathered to congratulate him.
Arriving in Kerala for the first time after the announcement of the prestigious award, Mohanlal told reporters at the Kochi airport that he dedicates the honor to the film industry.
“I wish more good things to come in the industry and I hope this honor will inspire the new generation,” he said with a smile.
An emotional Mohanlal thanked God, the audience, his parents and the country. He said, “It is a matter of great pleasure. I am grateful to everyone who has been a part of my journey.”
Reminiscing about his 48-year-long career, Mohanlal said, “I remember all those who walked with me and send my love and prayers to them on this occasion.”
He credited the audience and the Malayalam film industry for making him what he is today.