B.K. Warrior (Game Runner)

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.