‘When a character demands it, you can't say no’: Mohanlal on that unforgettable ‘Kaalapani‘ scene

Calling his role in the upcoming Telugu film Kannappa a blessing, veteran actor Mohanlal reflected on the power of performance and the choices an actor makes — especially when a character pushes them to the edge.

Speaking during a promotional interview for Kannappa, in which he stars alongside lead actor Vishnu Manchu, Mohanlal said, “It’s a big film, and as an actor, being a part of it is truly a blessing. The shoot was in New Zealand. It's a story everyone knows well, and I consider it divine grace to be a part of such a tale. I’m thankful to Vishnu Manchu for inviting me to the project. It’s not about the length of the role — even a few moments in a film like this is an honour.”

When Vishnu asked about one of Mohanlal’s most intense scenes — the Kaalapani sequence where his character is forced to clean the shoe of villain character Mirza Khan, played by Amarish Puri, with his tongue — the superstar’s reply was strikingly candid.

“That was the character’s reality,” Mohanlal said. “You can’t hold back when a role demands it. It’s not a matter of choice — it’s what the character is going through. It was an act of cruelty inflicted on an Indian. If the situation and character call for it, you must do it. There’s no alternative.”

Mohanlal also mentioned that his long-standing acquaintance with Vishnu Manchu’s family was one of the reasons he agreed to take part in Kannappa. “When someone comes with such a big project and asks if you can act in it — how can you say no’?” he said.

Mohanlal’s reflections once again highlight his commitment to roles that challenge emotional boundaries and honour the authenticity of storytelling.