Army Chief Honours Mohanlal: Actor Expresses Pride, Plans More Films on the Indian Army

National award-winning actor Mohanlal has once again found himself in the spotlight-this time not for a film release, but for a moment of national recognition. The Indian Army Chief, Gen. Upendra Dwivedi, recently commended the actor for his contributions and commitment to the Territorial Army, where he holds the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

The meeting took place in New Delhi, where the two discussed strategies to enhance the efficiency of the Territorial Army battalion. Mohanlal, visibly moved by the honour, called it one of the proudest moments of his life.

"It is a matter of immense pride to receive commendation from the Army Chief. It reminds me of the responsibility that comes with wearing the uniform," he said.

The commendation comes shortly after Mohanlal received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India's highest honour in cinema, at the 71st National Film Awards in September.

Kerala Celebrates Its Star

Following the recognition from the Army, the Kerala government held a felicitation ceremony titled 'Malayalam Vanolam Lalsalam' in Thiruvananthapuram. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan presented the actor with a citation penned by noted poet Prabha Varma, celebrating his contribution to cinema and his national honour.

Sharing pictures from the event on X (formerly Twitter), Mohanlal wrote,

"Moments like these fill me with profound gratitude. My sincere thanks to the Government of Kerala for the honour and warmth during the felicitation."

A Soldier Beyond the Screen

Mohanlal's association with the armed forces spans over 16 years, a relationship that reflects his lifelong respect for discipline, service, and patriotism. The actor has portrayed soldiers on screen in acclaimed films such as Keerthi Chakra and Kurukshetra, and he now hopes to work on more projects that highlight the valour of India's armed forces.

"Stories of the Indian Army always move me deeply," Mohanlal said. "If I can bring even a fraction of their courage to the big screen, that's an honour in itself."

As one of India's most respected actors and a rare civilian honoured by the Army, Mohanlal continues to bridge the worlds of art and service-reminding fans that heroism isn't confined to cinema; sometimes, it's lived in uniform.