‘The call ‘Laletta’ always make me….’: Kerala celebrates Mohanlal with ‘Lal Salaam’ after Dadasaheb Phalke Award

Thiruvananthapuram: The Government of Kerala hosted a grand public celebration in honour of Malayalam cinema icon Mohanlal in the state capital, following his recent receipt of India’s highest film award, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.

Titled ‘Malayalam Vaanolam, Lal Salaam’, the event was held at Central Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram. In his address, Mohanlal reflected on his career and the significance of the prestigious award.

“While receiving the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, I not only remembered my predecessors who were honoured before me, but also Dadasaheb Phalke’s immense contributions to Indian cinema,” he said. “I felt the special nature of the award deeply. Being here in Thiruvananthapuram, the city where I grew up, makes it even more emotional. This honour is particularly meaningful because it comes from the people of Kerala, Malayalis, and a government elected by them who have supported me throughout my career.”

Recalling the early days of his career, Mohanlal said, “48 years ago, without knowing much about cinema, some friends and I dared to make a small film and then went to Madras. Without my knowledge, they sent my photograph to Malayalam director Fazil, which led to my debut in ‘Manjil Virinja Poovu’. Before coming here, my face was in front of the camera for’ Drishyam 3’. Looking back at my journey, I feel like a small leaf falling from a tree on the shore, guided by invisible hands, the hands of skilled filmmakers, writers, cinematographers, makeup artists, and the Malayalis. Whenever I am in doubt about my work, the call  ‘Laletta’ always makes me reflect that I belong to the world of cinema.”

He also paid tribute to Dadasaheb Phalke, bowing to the father of Indian cinema. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan formally honoured Mohanlal on behalf of the state.