Mohanlal addressed the media in Kochi on Sunday after it was officially announced that he would be conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2023, the highest honour in Indian cinema.

The veteran actor, known for his humility and understated presence, used the occasion to reflect on his nearly five-decade-long journey in films. Speaking with emotion, he remembered the people who stood by him throughout his career.

“Many who were with me for 48 years are no more. I’m remembering them today. Everyone together makes cinema — they made Mohanlal.”

Mohanlal deflected attention from personal glory, calling the award a recognition of collective effort and the larger spirit of cinema.

“It’s not about being the first or second Malayali to receive it. For me, this is about being part of something much bigger — I see this as an award for Indian cinema.”

He acknowledged that while he has received numerous accolades over the years, this recognition carries a unique emotional weight.

“I have received many awards, but this is the most prestigious in the film fraternity. For that, I am proud and grateful — with a deep sense of humility.”

The actor also fondly recalled the legendary names he worked with across industries.

“From Shivaji to Prem Nazir, I was lucky to have acted with a lot of great actors,” he said, pausing to acknowledge the generational legacy of Indian cinema.

When asked about filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma's recent comment, which drew attention on social media, Mohanlal responded with composure and good humour:

“Ram Gopal Varma is always a man of black humour. He has always thought and spoken differently from others. I don’t think of it as a serious remark.”

The Government of India announced the award on Saturday, based on the recommendation of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award Selection Committee. The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, in a post on X, said the award recognises Mohanlal’s “iconic contribution to Indian cinema.”

“Mohanlal's remarkable cinematic journey inspires generations… His unmatched talent, versatility, and relentless hard work have set a golden standard in Indian film history,” the ministry said.

With a career spanning over 350 films across Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi, Mohanlal is widely regarded as one of Indian cinema’s finest actors. His body of work, which blends commercial success with critical acclaim, has made him a household name far beyond his home state of Kerala.

“Cinema gave me everything. I’m only a part of it — and I am truly thankful,” he said.