Veteran Malayalam actor Mohanlal, who received a ceremonial honour from the Indian Army donning a military uniform complete with rank insignia, is facing criticism for certain reasons.

The controversy began after Mohanlal (who was conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army in 2009) shared a photo on social media showing him receiving a commendation from Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi. In the image, the actor is seen wearing the Indian Army uniform with a beard, prompting criticism from several former senior military officials who pointed out that he had not followed proper protocol.

Critics highlighted that there are specific grooming and conduct regulations associated with wearing military attire, even for civilians who have been conferred honorary ranks.

Former Naval Chief and Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee, Retired Admiral Arun Prakash, publicly stated:

“Distinguished civilians, conferred an honorary rank in the armed forces by the President of India, must receive proper advice from the Service HQ on how one must appear while wearing military rank and uniform.”

His remarks gained further traction and were supported by several high-ranking retired officers, including Air Vice Marshal Sanjay Bhatnagar, Vice Admiral Shekhar Sinha, and Captain Saibal Ghosh, all of whom echoed concerns over the apparent breach of military dress code.

The primary objection relates to Mohanlal’s beard while in uniform. According to Indian military regulations, personnel must be clean-shaven when in uniform, with exceptions made only for members of the Sikh community due to religious provisions. Critics argue that by appearing in uniform with facial hair, Mohanlal violated these norms.

Beyond the uniform issue, some have questioned the merit of the recognition itself. Mohanlal holds the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army. During the felicitation ceremony, he was awarded the Army Chief’s Commendation Card – a gesture that sparked further criticism.

Wing Commander Mohammed Mujeeb questioned the decision, stating:

“How is such a commendation being given freely to a civilian, when full-time soldiers have to shed blood and sweat to earn such honours?”

Meanwhile, upon receiving the award, Mohanlal had stated:

“Today, I had the honour of being called by the Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, PVSM, AVSM, to the Army Headquarters, where I was awarded the COAS Commendation Card in the presence of seven Army Commanders.

Receiving this recognition as an Honorary Lieutenant Colonel is a moment of immense pride and gratitude. I remain deeply thankful to General Upendra Dwivedi, the entire Indian Army, and my parent unit of the Territorial Army for this honour and their unwavering support.”

While Mohanlal has not responded publicly to the controversy, the debate has reignited broader questions around the use of military uniforms by civilians, even in honorary contexts, and the standards that should apply.