In your opinion, should the Dada Saheb Phalke Award 2025 have gone to someone else in the Indian film industry who is equally deserving but less celebrated? If yes, who and why?

I don’t think so. Mohanlal is the right choice. The Dada Saheb Phalke Award 2025 is about celebrating legends, and he is a legend in every sense. If you look at his fan following, critical acclaim, and international exposure, it’s clear he belongs to the same league as Amitabh Bachchan and Rajinikanth. Other deserving people can be honoured later, but right now, Mohanlal’s selection feels perfect.

Yes, I feel the Dada Saheb Phalke Award 2025 could have gone to a behind-the-scenes contributor. Someone like cinematographer Santosh Sivan, who has elevated the visual storytelling of Indian films globally, would have been a great choice. His craft has influenced how Indian cinema is viewed internationally, but he doesn’t have the same celebrity aura as Mohanlal. Recognizing people like him would expand the award’s definition and surprise the public in a positive way.