The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Saturday announced that Malayalam superstar Mohanlal will be awarded the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023.

“Mohanlal’s remarkable cinematic journey inspires generations! The legendary actor, director, and producer is being honoured for his iconic contribution to Indian Cinema,” the Ministry said in an X post. A two-time National Film Award winner for Best Actor, he has been enchanting audiences for over four and a half decades with a charm and versatility few can rival. From Kerala to screens across Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Hindi cinema, Mohanlal has brought to life more than 350 characters, each leaving an indelible mark.

Congratulating the actor, PM Narendra Modi posted on X, “Shri Mohanlal Ji epitomises excellence and versatility. With a rich body of work spanning decades, he stands as a leading light of Malayalam cinema, theatre and is deeply passionate about the culture of Kerala. He has also delivered remarkable performances in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Hindi films. His cinematic and theatrical brilliance across mediums is truly inspiring.”

The congratulatory messages poured in after the announcement. In another heartfelt post for Mohanlal, his contemporary Mammootty called him a true artist. “More than a colleague, a brother, and an artist who has embarked on this wonderful cinematic journey for decades. The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is not just for an actor, but for a true artist who has lived and breathed cinema. So happy and proud of you, Lal. You truly deserve this crown.”

Affectionately called ‘Lalettan’, the actor’s journey is one of effortless brilliance, blending intensity with subtlety, humor with gravitas and mass appeal with critical acclaim. The award will be presented at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony on September 23.

Last year, actor Mithun Chakraborty was awarded the Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award for the year 2022.