Mohanlal receives Army Chief’s commendation for his service and cinema after Dadasaheb Phalke honour

Veteran actor Mohanlal, who also serves as an Honorary Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army, met the Chief of Army Staff in New Delhi this week to receive a special commendation following his Dadasaheb Phalke Award win. The meeting combined recognition, respect, and reflection, honouring not just his cinematic journey but also his long-standing bond with the Indian Army.

Speaking to ANI after the meeting, Mohanlal said, “It is a great recognition and so much honour to receive a commendation from the Army Chief. Dadasaheb Phalke award is also one of the reasons. So, we had a good meeting and had a small lunch. It's a great gesture from the fraternity. I have also been a part of this fraternity for the last 16 years. We had some conversation on how to bring out more efficiency in the TA battalion and what we can do for the country.”

The meeting, which included a private lunch with senior Army officials, was more than a ceremonial gesture, it underlined the mutual respect between the armed forces and one of India’s most celebrated artists. Mohanlal reportedly discussed new ways the Territorial Army could strengthen its community outreach and operational effectiveness, reflecting his genuine commitment to the force he has proudly represented for over a decade.

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Mohanlal’s association with the Territorial Army dates back to 2009, when he was conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel by then Chief of the Army Staff, General Deepak Kapoor. The appointment made him the first Indian actor to receive such an honour, acknowledging his on-screen portrayals of courage and patriotism as well as his off-screen advocacy for national service and discipline.