Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 4 (UNI) Malayalam superstar Mohanlal today described receiving the Dadasaheb Phalke Award as the “proudest and most emotional” moment of his life, dedicating the honour to Kerala, Malayalam cinema and its people.
Responding at the State Government’s felicitation event “Malayalam Vaanolam, Laalsalaam” here, the veteran actor said, “This is the land where I was born and raised, where my parents and family lived. Every tree, every road and old building here is part of my soul. Today, I stand with an emotional weight that even my acting cannot hide. I accept this honour with heartfelt gratitude.”
Reflecting on cinema pioneer Dadasaheb Phalke, after whom the award is named, Mohanlal said every Indian actor remains indebted to him. Looking back at his 48-year career beginning with Manjil Virinja Pookkal, he credited writers, directors, technicians, and audiences for shaping his journey.
“No artist exists without viewers. This award is dedicated to Kerala, Malayalam, and my people,” he said, thanking Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Ministers Saji Cherian, V Sivankutty, K N Balagopal, and G R Anil for organising the grand reception.
