Understanding the Dadasaheb Phalke Award and Mohanlal's Impact on Indian Cinema

Dadasaheb Phalke Award and Mohanlal’s recognition

1. What is the Dadasaheb Phalke Award?

The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is India’s highest honour in cinema. Instituted in 1969 in memory of Dadasaheb Phalke, known as the Father of Indian cinema, it is conferred by the Government of India for lifetime contribution to Indian cinema. It is presented annually at the National Film Awards ceremony.

2. Who decides the award?

The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting administers the award, based on recommendations from a specially constituted Dadasaheb Phalke Award Selection Committee.

3. What does the award include?

Recipients are honoured with:

• A Golden Lotus (Swarna Kamal) medallion
• A shawl
• A cash prize of ₹10 lakh

4. Why is Mohanlal receiving it in 2023?

Mohanlal is being honoured for his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema spanning over four decades. His career highlights include:

• Over 400 films across Malayalam, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada.
• Renowned for versatility, powerful screen presence, and ability to adapt to diverse roles.
• Recipient of five National Awards, several Kerala State Awards, the Padma Shri (2001), and the Padma Bhushan (2019).
• Contributions beyond films, including theatre and cultural promotion of Kerala.

5. When will he receive the award?

Mohanlal will receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2023 at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony on September 23, 2025.

6. Why is it significant?

This recognition celebrates not only Mohanlal’s individual brilliance but also the global reach of Malayalam cinema. It reflects India’s respect for artists who elevate cinema as an art form and a cultural bridge.