New Delhi, India — The Government of India has declared that veteran actor Mohanlal will be conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2023, the nation’s highest honour in cinema, in recognition of his outstanding contribution over decades.

When and Where

The award will be officially presented during the 71st National Film Awards ceremony, scheduled for September 23, 2025.

Reason for Honour

Mohanlal — actor, director, and producer — is being honoured for his iconic and versatile performances. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he has appeared in over 350-400 films across Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi cinema.  His unmatched talent, ability to shift between a wide array of roles, and consistent hard work have earned him this recognition. 

His Response & Public Reaction

After the announcement, Mohanlal said he was “deeply humbled and profoundly honored” to receive the award, adding that the honour belongs to everyone who has been part of his journey. Several fellow actors and celebrities have expressed their congratulations, saying the award is well-deserved. 

Prime Minister’s Message

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Mohanlal as an "epitome of excellence and versatility," highlighting how Mohanlal’s work has resonated beyond regional cinema, touching Pan-Indian audiences. 

Legacy & Highlights

Mohanlal made his cinematic debut in the late 1970s; though his first released film was Manjil Virinja Pookkal (1980), where he played an antagonist.

Some of his most memorable performances have been in films like Kireedam, Bharatham, Vanaprastham, Drishyam, Pulimurugan. 

He has earlier been honoured with the Padma Shri (2001) and Padma Bhushan (2019). 

About the Dadasaheb Phalke Award

Instituted in 1969, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award is India’s most prestigious cinema honour — given for lifetime contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema. The award includes a Swarna Kamal (Golden Lotus) medallion, a shawl, and a cash prize of ₹10 lakh.