Veteran actor Mohanlal was today honoured with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023, the highest recognition in Indian cinema, at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony held in New Delhi. Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw hailed Mohanlal as the "real OG" during the 71st National Film Awards ceremony in New Delhi, earning thunderous applause from the audience. This moment is not mine alone — it belongs to the entire Malayalam cinema fraternity. "I accept this award as the blessing of my forerunners — the legendary masters of Malayalam cinema, past and present. I dedicate it to them, to the vibrant Malayalam film industry, and to the intelligent audience of Kerala who have nurtured our art with love and insight."