'Didn't act in Adoor movies, thus became superstar'; Senior actor with viral Instagram comment

Two days ago, the state government honoured Mohanlal, who won the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. The event, titled 'Lal Salaam', was attended by prominent figures from the political and film industries. Director and former Dadasaheb Phalke winner Adoor Gopalakrishnan was also present at the event.

Adoor Gopalakrishnan’s speech at the event attracted attention after he politely mentioned not receiving similar felicitation or celebration when he won the coveted award almost two decades back. Adoor also said he was proud of Mohanlal’s talent.

Many remarked that it was inappropriate for Adoor to make such a remark at a very positive event attended by the Chief Minister and others.

Mohanlal, in his response, mentioned that it was the first time the veteran director said something good about him.

Adoor and Mohanlal have not collaborated together for a film. In his previous interviews, Adoor reasoned this for his inability to consider Mohanlal in an ordinary role in his movies. Adoor opined that the actor, through his movies, instilled an image of a ‘rowdy’ and machoism, which would not find space in his movies.

Now, actor Baiju Santosh has come out strongly criticising Adoor. Baiju, in a comment on social media, said, "Mohanlal ended up as a superstar because of not acting in Adoor’s films."

The comment received big support from some sections, while others took offence over the scoffing made at the venerated director.