‘News of award was first informed by PM’s office, shoot of Drishyam 3 to start tomorrow’

KOCHI: Actor Mohanlal said that he sees the Dadasaheb Phalke Award being conferred to him as the biggest recognition he has received in his 48-year film career. Mohanlal, who arrived in Kerala after the announcement of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India's highest film honor, said this while speaking to the media in Kochi.

He thanked the jury and the central government for choosing him for the award. Mohanlal shared his happiness by cutting a cake at the press meet. Producers Antony Perumbavoor, Ranjith and director Tarun Murthy also attended the press meet with Mohanlal.

'I see this award as the biggest recognition I have received in my 48-year film career. I thank the jury and the central government. First of all, I thank the almighty, my family, the audience and my co-stars. I am giving this award to Malayalam cinema. I met my mother and told her about the award. I am here before you (the media) after seeking her blessings. Many people who had worked with me in the past 48 years are not alive, I remember them at this moment.

I am very happy that Malayalam cinema has received the biggest award in Indian cinema. I have received many awards, but this award is very special. The shoot of Drishyam 3 is going to start tomorrow. The news of the award was first informed by the office of the Prime Minister. When I first heard about it, I asked them to repeat it again and it was for a clarification. I am happy to have been in the film industry for 48 years,' clarified the actor.