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In a major recognition of artistic excellence, the Government of India has announced that legendary actor, director, and producer Shri Mohanlal Viswanathan Nair will be conferred with the DadasahebPhalke Award for the year 2023, the highest honour in Indian cinema.

About the DadasahebPhalke Award

The DadasahebPhalke Award is India’s highest honour in the field of cinema, instituted in 1969 to commemorate the birth centenary of DadasahebPhalke, widely regarded as the Father of Indian Cinema.

• Inaugural Recipient: Devika Rani (1969)
• Presented by: The President of India
• Award Components: Swarna Kamal (Golden Lotus) medallion, a shawl, and a cash prize of ?10 lakh
• Purpose: To recognise individuals for their outstanding lifetime contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema.

About DadasahebPhalke

Dhundiraj Govind Phalke (1870–1944), born in Trimbak, Maharashtra, was a painter, photographer, playwright, and filmmaker. He directed India’s first full-length feature film, Raja Harishchandra (1913), which laid the foundation for Indian cinema. His pioneering vision and creative ingenuity earned him the title of “Father of Indian Cinema.”

Significance

The conferment of the DadasahebPhalke Award on Mohanlal marks a momentous chapter in Indian cinematic history. It recognises not just his artistic brilliance but also his contribution in shaping Indian cinema as a powerful medium of cultural expression. His journey from Kerala to global acclaim embodies the spirit of Indian creativity and excellence celebrated through this prestigious award.