• Award: Dadasaheb Phalke Award (India’s highest honor in cinema).

• Event: 71st National Film Awards, Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, September 23, 2025.

• Presented by: President Droupadi Murmu.

• Significance: Recognition of over four decades of excellence in Malayalam cinema, spanning drama, comedy, action, and experimental roles.

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🎭 Why Mohanlal’s Win Matters

• Versatility: Known as “The Complete Actor”, Mohanlal seamlessly blends into any role.

• Legacy: Over 350 films across genres, with multiple National Awards already to his name.

• Influence: Inspired generations of actors in both Malayalam and pan-Indian cinema.

• Global recognition: His performances have been praised internationally, yet often under-celebrated outside Kerala.

📊 Bollywood vs. Regional Cinema Spotlight

🌍 The Larger Issue

• Media imbalance: Bollywood stars dominate national headlines, while regional legends often receive muted coverage.

• Cultural gap: Millions of fans in Kerala and South India celebrated Mohanlal’s win, but the recognition didn’t translate into pan-Indian excitement.

• Fairness in celebration: Awards like the Dadasaheb Phalke should unite the nation in honoring cinema’s greatest contributors.

🌟 Takeaway

Mohanlal’s honor is not just a personal milestone—it is a moment for Indian cinema as a whole. His artistry deserves the same nationwide celebration as Bollywood icons. Recognizing legends across all languages ensures that India’s cinematic heritage is celebrated in its full diversity.

Sources:

• South Asia Times – Mohanlal honored with Dadasaheb Phalke Award

• Subkuz – Full winners list of 71st National Film Awards

• Always First – National Film Awards 2025 ceremony highlights