Veteran actor Mohanlal on Sunday congratulated Mammootty after the Malayalam cinema legend was announced as a recipient of the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour. Mohanlal’s message, shared on social media ahead of the 77th Republic Day of India, was widely circulated among fans and quickly added to the celebratory mood surrounding the announcement.

In his post, Mohanlal addressed Mammootty affectionately, writing, “Ichakka, absolutely delighted to know you’ve been conferred the Padma Bhushan. Heartfelt congratulations. Wishing you continued grace and glory.” The brief but warm note reflected the long-standing bond between the two actors, who have together shaped the landscape of Malayalam cinema for over four decades.

Mohanlal and Mammootty have shared screen space in more than 50 films since the early years of their careers. Their collaborations, marked by creative rivalry and mutual respect, have played a defining role in the popularity and evolution of Malayalam films across generations.

Adding to the excitement for fans, the two actors are set to reunite on screen later this year in director Mahesh Narayanan’s espionage thriller Patriot. The film is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on April 23 and marks one of their most anticipated films in recent years.

Mammootty was named as a Padma Bhushan awardee by the Ministry of Home Affairs on Sunday, 28 years after he received the Padma Shri in 1998. Widely regarded as one of the most influential actors in Indian cinema, he has enjoyed a career spanning more than five decades and has acted in over 400 films across multiple languages.

The Padma Awards will be formally presented by the President of India at Rashtrapati Bhavan later this summer.