Mohanlal
The Complete Actor • Universal Star • Lalettan • Producer • Singer
This legendary celebrity hails from Kerala, who is well known to us as The Complete Actor, Universal Star, Producer, and Singer. Check the complete journey of Mohanlal Viswanathan Nair, lovingly called “Lalettan” by millions of fans worldwide.
Mohanlal – The Complete Actor biography
Biography
Personal Information
Stage Name: Mohanlal
Nicknames: Lalettan, Laalu, Universal Star, The Complete Actor
Real Name: Mohanlal Viswanathan Nair
Occupation: Actor, Producer, Singer, Distributor, Host
Industry: Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, Kannada Cinema
Basic Details
Date of Birth: May 21, 1960
Age: 65 years (as of 2025)
Birthplace: Elanthoor, Pathanamthitta, Kerala, India
Nationality: Indian
Religion: Hindu
About Mohanlal
Mohanlal Viswanathan Nair is an Indian actor, producer, distributor, host, and playback singer who has starred in mainstream blockbuster and art-house films. Born on May 21, 1960, he has made over 360 appearances in feature films during his career span, primarily in Malayalam cinema and also in Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and Kannada films.
Known as “The Complete Actor” and “Universal Star,” Mohanlal is considered one of the greatest actors in Indian cinema. He has received numerous accolades, including 5 National Film Awards, 9 Kerala State Film Awards, and the nation’s highest civilian honors – Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan.
Early Life & Family Background
Mohanlal was born to Viswanathan Nair (advocate) and Santhakumari Nair in Elanthoor, Pathanamthitta district, Kerala. He had an elder brother named Pyare Lal, who passed away. His father was a practicing advocate, and the family had a middle-class background rooted in Kerala’s cultural traditions.
Mohanlal in traditional Kerala attire
Current Status (2025)
Family & Personal Life
Family Members
Father: Viswanathan Nair (Advocate) – Deceased
Mother: Santhakumari Nair – Deceased
Elder Brother: Pyare Lal – Deceased
Wife: Suchitra Mohanlal (married April 28, 1988)
Children: Pranav Mohanlal (Son), Vismaya Mohanlal (Daughter)
Personal Life
Marital Status: Married (37+ years)
Current City: Kochi, Kerala
Hometown: Kochi, Kerala
Languages: Malayalam, English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Urdu, Marathi
Mohanlal with his wife Suchitra
Educational Background
Academic Qualifications
Primary School: GLPS Mudavanmugal School, Poojappura, Thiruvananthapuram
High School: Model School, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
College: Mahatma Gandhi College, Thiruvananthapuram
Qualification: Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)
Physical Appearance
Physical Traits
Height: 5 feet 8 inches (172 cm)
Body Type: Slim to Average
Chest: 42 inches
Waist: 36 inches
Biceps: 13 inches
Features
Face Shape: Oval
Eye Color: Black
Hair Color: Black (now grey)
Skin Tone: Fair
Nose Type: Sharp
Social Media Presence
Follow the legendary actor “Mohanlal” on the following social media platforms:
Career Timeline
Started acting at age 18 in “Thiranottam” (unreleased), made debut in “Manjil Virinja Pookkal” (1980) as antagonist
First protagonist role in “Padayottam” (1982), playback singing debut in “Onnanam Kunnil Oradi Kunnil” (1985)
Record year – 34 films, youngest Kerala State Award winner at 26 for “T.P. Balagopalan M.A.”
“Chithram” (1988) ran for 58 weeks, First National Award mention for “Kireedam” (1989), founded Pranavam Arts (1990)
First National Award for “Bharatham” (1991), Second National Award for “Vaanaprastham” (1999)
Bollywood debut “Company” (2002), Tamil debut “Iruvar”, “Chandramukhi” (2005)
“Drishyam” (2013), “Pulimurugan” (2016) first Malayalam film to cross ₹100 crore, “L2: Empuraan” and “Thudarum” (2025)
Military Honor & Recognition
Honorary Military Rank
The Indian Territorial Army bestowed on him the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel for his outstanding performance as Major Mahadevan in the war films “Keerthi Chakra” (2006) and its sequel “Kurukshetra” (2008). This is a rare honor given to civilians for their contribution to promoting military values and patriotism through cinema.
Major Blockbusters & Records
Career-Defining Films
- Drishyam (2013) – Highest-grossing Malayalam film of its time
- Pulimurugan (2016) – First Malayalam film to cross ₹100 crore worldwide
- Lucifer (2019) – One of the highest-grossing Malayalam films
- L2: Empuraan (2025) – Recent blockbuster grossing ₹265+ crore
- Thudarum (2025) – Latest success grossing ₹200+ crore
Record Achievements
- 34 films released in 1986 (24 were box office hits)
- Youngest Kerala State Award winner at age 26
- Over 360 films in 45+ year career
- 5 National Film Awards
- 9 Kerala State Film Awards
Recent Films & Projects (2025)
Latest Releases
- L2: Empuraan (2025) – Sequel to Lucifer, grossed ₹265+ crore worldwide
- Thudarum (2025) – Directed by Tharun Moorthy, grossed ₹200+ crore
- Neru (2023) – Commercial success
Upcoming Projects
- Hridayapoorvam (2025) – Directed by Sathyan Anthikad, releasing August 28, 2025
- Barroz – Directorial debut (400-year-old spirit story)
- Marakkar: Lion of the Arabian Sea – Epic historical drama
Awards & Honors
National Recognition
- Padma Shri (2001) – Fourth highest civilian honor
- Padma Bhushan (2019) – Third highest civilian honor
- 5 National Film Awards including Best Actor twice
- Honorary Lieutenant Colonel – Indian Territorial Army
Film Industry Awards
- 9 Kerala State Film Awards
- IIFA Star Screen Award – Best Supporting Actor (Company)
- Special Jury Mention – National Awards (Kireedam)
- Multiple Filmfare Awards South
Business Ventures & Production
Production Houses
- Pranavam Arts (1990) – Founded his own production company
- Cheers Films (1986) – Co-founded second production company
- Bharatham (1991) – Production debut
Other Ventures
- Film distribution and exhibition
- Television hosting and presenting
- Playback singing in multiple films
- Brand endorsements and commercial appearances
Professional Achievements
Career Highlights
Debut Films:
- Malayalam: Manjil Virinja Pookkal (1980)
- Bollywood: Company (2002)
- Tamil: Chandramukhi (2005)
- Production: Bharatham (1991)
- Singing: Sindooramegham Shringaarakaavyam (1985)
Earnings & Net Worth
Salary per Film: ₹2-3 Crore (Approx.)
Net Worth: Estimated ₹50+ Crore
Income Sources: Acting, Production, Distribution, Endorsements
Assets: Real estate, production houses, investments
Mohanlal with fellow superstar Mammootty
Lifestyle & Preferences
Personal Interests
Hobbies: Long Drive, Photography
Food: Continental, South Indian
Music: Indian classical, Western classical
Sports: Cricket, Football (huge cricket fan)
Favorite Destination: Italy
Favorite Color: Brown
Lifestyle Choices
Fitness: Regular gym and jogging
Swimming: Yes
Driving: Yes (loves long drives)
Eating Habit: Non-Vegetarian
Favorite Actor: Kamal Haasan
Favorite Actress: Sridevi
Vijay with Mohanlal at Jilla shooting spot
Interesting Facts & Legacy
Unknown Facts About Mohanlal
- Started his career as a villain in “Manjil Virinja Pookkal” at age 20
- Released 34 films in 1986, with 24 being box office successes
- Youngest recipient of Kerala State Film Award at age 26
- First Malayalam actor to receive honorary Lieutenant Colonel rank
- Fluent in 8 languages including Urdu and Marathi
- His film “Chithram” holds record for longest continuous run (58 weeks)
- Founded two production companies – Cheers Films and Pranavam Arts
- Received both Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan awards
- His son Pranav Mohanlal is also an actor
- Known for his effortless dialogue delivery and natural acting
- Considered one of the finest actors in Indian cinema
- Has worked with multiple generations of actors and directors
Cultural Impact & Fan Following
The Lalettan Phenomenon
Mohanlal, affectionately called “Lalettan” by fans, has transcended the boundaries of mere stardom to become a cultural icon. His impact on Malayalam cinema and Indian cinema as a whole is immeasurable. He has:
- Inspired countless actors and filmmakers across India
- Elevated Malayalam cinema to international recognition
- Maintained relevance across 4+ decades of cinema
- Created memorable characters that have become part of popular culture
- Demonstrated versatility across all genres – comedy, drama, action, thriller
- Built a global fan base extending beyond Kerala and India
Future Projects & Vision
Continuing Legacy
At 65, Mohanlal continues to be one of the most sought-after actors in Indian cinema. His upcoming projects include collaborations with both veteran and new-generation directors, ensuring his continued relevance in evolving cinema.
His directorial venture “Barroz” marks his entry into directing, showcasing his multi-faceted talents. With “Hridayapoorvam” scheduled for release in August 2025, fans can expect more memorable performances from the Complete Actor.
Controversy
Mohanlal has maintained a remarkably clean image throughout his 45+ year career. No major controversies have been associated with him, which is a testament to his professionalism and personal integrity. He is widely respected not just as an actor but as a person who has conducted himself with dignity throughout his career.
Stay Connected
Follow Mohanlal on his social media platforms for the latest updates on his movies, personal moments, and glimpses into the life of Indian cinema’s most beloved Complete Actor!
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