Happy Birthday, Mohanlal! Revisiting His National Award-Winning Roles

In the movie 'Vanaprastham,' Mohanlal portrays the character of Kunhikuttan, a Kathakali dancer hailing from a lower caste background. Kunhikuttan's character is intricately layered, showcasing his personal struggles and the societal limitations he encounters. Despite his immense talent, Kunhikuttan's life is fraught with emotional turmoil and a pervasive sense of dissatisfaction. The film explores his relationships, particularly with a wealthy woman named Subhadra, who becomes captivated by his artistry. This bond adds further complexity to Kunhikuttan's life, challenging established class boundaries and societal norms.

Directed by Shaji N Karun, the film showcases Mohanlal's exceptional performance as he seamlessly embodies the role of Kunjikuttan, a Kathakali artist. Premiering at the Cannes Film Festival in 1991, the film garnered numerous national and international accolades, including Mohanlal's second National Award for Best Actor. Additionally, he served as a co-producer for the film.

The film directed by Sibi Malayil, stars Mohanlal as Sethumadhavan, a young man aspiring to follow his father's footsteps into the police force. However, fate intervenes, plunging him into a web of life's complexities. The film delves into family dynamics, societal pressures, and the individual's struggle against destiny. With stellar performances, especially by Mohanlal and Thilakan, it earned critical acclaim, bagging the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam and the Kerala State Film Award for Best Film. 'Kireedam' remains a gem in Malayalam cinema.

Mohanlal shines as Gopinathan in 'Bharatham', a gifted musician overshadowed by his elder brother Raghavan played by Nedumudi Venu, a renowned classical singer. When tragedy strikes and Raghavan falls into a coma, Gopinathan must navigate the complexities of his own ambitions and family responsibilities. His portrayal earned widespread praise, contributing to the film's acclaim for its emotional depth and resonant music.

'Munthirivallikal Thalirkkumbol' is a touching and humorous exploration of mid-life and familial relationships, brought to life by strong performances and engaging storytelling. Released in theaters in 2017, it stands out as a significant film in contemporary Malayalam cinema for its relatable themes and heartfelt narrative. The movie was well-received by both critics and audiences, with Mohanlal's performance particularly praised for its depth and relatability. His portrayal won a National Film Award for Special Jury category.

Pulimurugan stands as one of Mohanlal's most successful movies, boasting impressive box office numbers. Prior to the release of Lucifer, this film held the title of being the highest-grossing film in the Malayalam industry, featuring Lal in a prominent role. During its initial release, Pulimurugan amassed a staggering Rs. 46 crore in India, with a significant portion of nearly 40 crores originating from Kerala alone. This film shattered numerous records within the Mollywood industry and received favorable reviews for its visually stunning sequences.