In an intimate conversation with the latest edition of Grihalakshmi, the legendary Mohanlal—a man who has gifted the world countless immortal moments of cinematic brilliance—opens up about his characters, the profound insights life has granted him, and the lessons learned through the loss of his loved ones. He speaks tenderly of memories that shift like shadows, sometimes bringing joy and, at other times, a deep, lingering ache.

The sorrow of vanishing faces

Reflecting on the passage of time and the colleagues he has lost, Mohanlal shares a poignant observation about his own body of work. "Watching certain scenes from my old films fills me with sadness. It is because many of the actors who stood beside me in those frames are no longer alive."

Speaking of death as a constant companion, he admits the inevitability of it all. "Of course, sadness washes over me. But what is the use of grieving? Tomorrow, I too will vanish. That is a reality. It is with the full knowledge of this truth that I still mourn. Tears spring from a place far beyond philosophy. The world has seen so many philosophies, yet man still finds himself weeping. I am just an ordinary human being," he tells Grihalakshmi.

Memories of loved ones

The actor also touches upon the personal void left by the passing of his mother, father and brother. While their absence is heavy, he carries them with him in a way that transcends physical presence. "I feel an immense sorrow that they have all departed. Yet, I have never felt truly alone. When I close my eyes, they are right there inside me. It is simply that I can no longer touch them or see them."

A philosophical journey

Guided by the premise that philosophy is a flavour intertwined with the very essence of human existence, Mohanlal explores the enigmas of God, life and death. Having completed over six decades on this earth, he reflects in detail on the thoughts and realisations that have found their home in him.

The second April issue of Grihalakshmi also features the final chapter of "Ullamthotta Urava" (The Spring that Touched the Soul), a column penned by Mohanlal sharing the profound concepts of Osho.