Kerala Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cherian on Monday announced that the state government will organise a special event to honour Malayalam superstar Mohanlal, who recently received the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award. The event, titled ‘Lal-Salam’, is scheduled to take place in Kerala on October 4 at 5 pm.
Mohanlal was presented with the coveted award by President Droupadi Murmu during the 71st National Film Awards ceremony held recently in Delhi. Minister Cherian praised the actor’s contribution, saying Mohanlal’s work “to Malayalam cinema and to the people of Kerala has been remarkable.”
He described the actor’s win as “a golden moment for the state.” As part of the celebrations, a special show featuring actresses and singers who have collaborated with Mohanlal will be staged. The Dadasaheb Phalke Award, regarded as the pinnacle of recognition in Indian cinema, celebrates a body of work that has made a lasting impact on the industry.
Mohanlal, popularly called “Lal” and affectionately known as “Lalettan”, has captivated audiences for nearly five decades. His illustrious career includes landmark roles in classics such as ‘Bharatham’, ‘Spadikam’, and the ‘Drishyam’ series, which have left an indelible imprint on Indian cinema.
Over the years, he has won five National Awards, including one as a producer, and countless other honours that highlight his versatility and natural style of performance. The only other Keralaite to win this honour was legendary director Adoor Gopalakrishnan, and another highlight is that at 65 years, he is the youngest recipient.
