Do you think the selection of Mohanlal for the Dada Saheb Phalke Award 2025 truly reflects the diversity and pan-Indian spirit of cinema, or should the award focus more on artists who have not yet received national-level recognition?

For me, the Dada Saheb Phalke Award 2025 going to Mohanlal is perfect timing. The man has been entertaining us for over four decades. His influence is not restricted to Kerala; many Bollywood directors and actors openly acknowledge his artistry. I see it this way: this award often oscillates between Bollywood legends and regional stalwarts. In 2021, it was Rajinikanth, a Tamil superstar. In 2025, Mohanlal from Malayalam cinema. This balancing act does bring diversity. What we must also understand is that the audience connects most with actors. Giving it to Mohanlal ensures the award gets public recognition as well, which indirectly highlights the entire Malayalam industry. So yes, I think it absolutely reflects pan-Indian spirit.

Mohanlal’s selection for the Dada Saheb Phalke Award 2025 is, in my view, a genuine reflection of the pan-Indian spirit of cinema. While his foundation lies in Malayalam films, his influence has not been limited to one language or region. He has acted in Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi projects, and his screen presence has attracted fans across India. If we analyze the award’s intent, it is not just about promoting diversity but about recognizing outstanding lifetime contribution. In this sense, Mohanlal checks all the boxes. His versatility, range of roles, and ability to adapt to different genres are unmatched. Whether it was his subtle performances in classics like Bharatham or his commercial mass-hero roles, he has consistently raised the bar. Of course, one might argue that lesser-known contributors deserve recognition. But the award is not necessarily about popularity or obscurity—it is about impact. Mohanlal’s contribution is both cultural and artistic, and it certainly reflects the diversity of Indian cinema, which has long been overshadowed by Bollywood dominance.

While I respect Mohanlal’s achievements, I feel the Dada Saheb Phalke Award 2025 could have gone to someone else. Indian cinema is massive, and every region has legends who are under-celebrated nationally. Take Kannada cinema for example. Despite its rich history and recent global recognition through films like KGF, only a few icons have been acknowledged on such a platform. By awarding Mohanlal—already a household name—the jury missed a chance to surprise and educate audiences about lesser-known yet equally significant contributors. In short, this choice reinforces existing hierarchies rather than challenging them.

I feel conflicted about Mohanlal receiving the Dada Saheb Phalke Award 2025. On the one hand, he is undoubtedly a legend. On the other, this award could have been an opportunity to shine a spotlight on someone who has not yet received national-level recognition. There are many unsung heroes in Indian cinema: lyricists, sound designers, editors, and documentary filmmakers who have shaped the industry but remain largely invisible to mainstream audiences. If the award keeps going only to superstar actors, does it not reduce the scope of what cinema means? Yes, Mohanlal has given us brilliance. But imagine the impact if a behind-the-scenes genius was honoured this year. It would expand the definition of what we consider a “lifetime achievement.” By that measure, while Mohanlal is deserving, I don’t think it fully reflects the diversity of cinema.