Mohanlal became a superstar because he never acted in his films: Baiju Santhosh's viral dig

A comment made by Malayalam actor Baiju Santhosh has gone viral, intensifying the online discourse surrounding the state-sponsored event ‘Vaanolam Malayalam Laal Salaam’, held in honour of Dadasaheb Phalke Award recipient Mohanlal.

Baiju reacted to a circulating video that compiled filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan’s remarks and Mohanlal’s witty response during the function. In a sharp comment, Baiju wrote, “Mohanlal became a superstar because he never acted in his films (referring to Adoor).” The remark quickly gained traction, with social media users flooding the comments with support like “Baiju nailed it!” and “Perfect reply to Adoor!”

Fans lauded Baiju’s stance as a bold defence of Mohanlal, calling it a fitting response amid ongoing criticism directed at the veteran actor.

What sparked the controversy?

The debate ignited after a video clip surfaced featuring Adoor Gopalakrishnan’s speech at the tribute event, juxtaposed with Mohanlal’s subtle yet humorous comeback, as well as an older interview of Adoor commenting on why he never worked with the superstar.

During his speech at the function, Adoor noted that when he received the Phalke award over 20 years ago, there was no such grand event organised in his honour. He pointed out that the current state government and Chief Minister had taken special interest in celebrating Mohanlal. These remarks drew criticism online, with some interpreting them as backhanded or dismissive.

Mohanlal, who addressed the gathering shortly after Adoor, responded with grace and humour:

“I thank Adoor sir, who spoke about me for the first time… or rather, has spoken about me several times before,” he quipped, prompting applause from the audience.

Old comments resurface

Adding fuel to the controversy, a clip from an old interview with Adoor Gopalakrishnan resurfaced following the event. In it, the award-winning filmmaker explained why he had never cast Mohanlal in his films.

“Mohanlal has a strong image—like a good-hearted rowdy. I can’t make a film with that. I don’t believe in a good rowdy. A rowdy is a rowdy,” he had said.