Mohanlal’s Meteoric Rise at 26: 34 Films, State Award, and Unmatched Stardom

A Year of Unparalleled Achievement

21.05.2024 : Starring in 34 films in a single year is no small feat, and Mohanlal did it with grace, playing the hero or one of the central characters in all these films, delivering remarkable performances. At 26, he redefined his career and cemented his place in the annals of Indian cinema history.

From Side Characters to Leading Man

Since his silver screen debut as an antagonist in Fazil’s Manjil Virinja Pookkal (1980), Mohanlal was often cast in grey-shaded or supporting roles. Without complaint, he embraced every opportunity, honing his craft and impressing both filmmakers and audiences. Thanks to the prolific movie production of the era and his relentless pursuit of excellence, Mohanlal soon became a beloved figure in Malayalam cinema.

Breakthrough Performances

Mohanlal’s standout performances in films like Ente Mamattikkuttiyammakku, Poochakkoru Mookkuthi, Sreekrishna Parunthu, Uyarangalil, Adiyozhukkukal, Nokketha Doorathu Kannum Nattu, Aram + Aram = Kinnaram, Anubandham, Koodum Thedi, Boeing Boeing, Karimpinpoovinakkare, and Pathamudayam established him as a versatile and bankable actor. Alongside Mammootty, he began his ascent to stardom.

The Pivotal Year: 1986

In 1986, Mohanlal’s career skyrocketed as he starred in an astonishing 34 films. This incredible achievement showcased his versatility and growth as an actor, far surpassing expectations. His performances demonstrated his evolution since Manjil Virinja Pookkal and highlighted his ability to excel in a variety of roles.

Mastery in Comedy

Mohanlal kicked off the year with a leading role in Sathyan Anthikad’s fantasy comedy Pappan Priyappetta Pappan. Despite the film’s lackluster box office performance, his portrayal of a cop possessed by a young spirit showcased his comedic talent. He further proved his comedic prowess in Priyadarshan’s Mazha Peyyunnu Maddalam Kottunnu, Hello My Dear Wrong Number, and Thalavattam.

Award-Winning Performances

Mohanlal collaborated with director Anthikad and screenwriter-actor Sreenivasan for three comedy-dramas — TP Balagopalan MA, Sanmanassullavarkku Samadhanam, and Gandhinagar 2nd Street. He won his first Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor for TP Balagopalan MA and his first Filmfare Award South for Best Actor for Sanmanassullavarkku Samadhanam. His role in Sibi Malayil’s satirical comedy-drama Doore Doore Oru Koodu Koottam also received significant acclaim.

Tackling Tragedies

Mohanlal’s range extended beyond comedy. In Ninnistham Ennishtam, his portrayal of a homeless orphan was heart-wrenching. He demonstrated remarkable maturity in Hariharan’s Panchagni, playing the emotionally complex character Rasheed. He continued to impress with nuanced performances in Sukhamo Devi and Yuvajanotsavam.

Voiceover Impact in Onnu Muthal Poojyam Vare

Even with minimal physical presence, Mohanlal made a lasting impression in Reghunath Paleri’s Onnu Muthal Poojyam Vare through his impactful voiceover and brief appearance towards the end of the film.

Collaborations with P. Padmarajan

Mohanlal’s collaborations with filmmaker P. Padmarajan in Namukku Parkkan Munthirithoppukal, Kariyilakkattu Pole, and Deshadanakkili Karayarilla are legendary. Each film became a benchmark in Malayalam cinema, showcasing his ability to handle diverse and challenging roles.

Iconic Role in Rajavinte Makan

In Thambi Kannanthanam’s gangster film Rajavinte Makan, Mohanlal’s portrayal of Vincent Gomes became iconic. At just 26, he embodied the crime boss with unmatched precision and depth, setting a standard for gangster roles in Malayalam cinema. The film’s success led to multiple remakes in other languages.

Expanding His Repertoire

Mohanlal also took on the titular role in the Malayalam remake of Don (1978), titled Shobhraj. While the film did not achieve significant success, it contributed to his career growth.

In 1986, Mohanlal’s relentless dedication and exceptional talent propelled him to superstardom. His performances across various genres and collaboration with renowned filmmakers solidified his status as a versatile and bankable actor. At 26, Mohanlal’s journey in cinema had just begun, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of actors and audiences alike.