Confers Dadasaheb Phalke Award on Shri Mohanlal
The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, presented the 71st National Film Awards in New Delhi on September 23, 2025. On this occasion, she also conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2023 on legendary actor Shri Mohanlal.
In her address, the President congratulated all award winners and lauded Mohanlal as “The Complete Actor”, who has masterfully portrayed both the softest and harshest human emotions on screen.
Women-Centric Cinema
The President expressed happiness that women-centric films are increasingly being made and recognized. She highlighted stories awarded this year that depict:
- Mothers shaping the values of their children,
- Women uniting to challenge social stereotypes,
- The struggles of women amid family and social complexities, and
- Courageous voices raised against patriarchy.
She commended such sensitive storytelling and filmmakers for showcasing the resilience and strength of women.
Cinema: A Reflection of India
President Murmu underlined that Indian cinema, the world’s largest film industry, mirrors the world’s largest democracy and its diverse society. Like Indian literature created in many languages, Indian cinema too flourishes in diverse languages, dialects, and regions — making films both local and national.
Popularity vs. Public Interest
Emphasizing cinema’s role beyond entertainment, the President said:
“Popularity may be a good thing for a film, but being in the public interest, especially for the younger generation, is even better.”
She urged filmmakers to strive for global recognition and acceptance of Indian cinema.
Recognition of Talent
President Murmu congratulated not only veteran stars and renowned filmmakers but also the youth whose talent and sensitivity reflect the promise of India’s bright future. She also appreciated efforts to encourage films focusing on children, particularly girls, and praised the recognition given to six child artists this year.
Citing the Marathi film “Shyamchi Aai”, which won the Best Film award both in 1954 and again this year in a new adaptation, the President noted that while technology and filmmaking styles have changed, timeless values of motherhood, compassion, and humanity remain central to Indian cinema.
Concluding her address, President Murmu expressed confidence that Indian cinema will continue to achieve greater recognition, popularity, and respect on the global stage.
Source: PIB
