Mohanlal a name synonymous with Malayalam cinema’s excellence, is now set to amaze audiences as a director with Barroz. While fans eagerly await his directorial debut, some fascinating anecdotes from his early days are creating a buzz on social media. Actor and producer Dinesh Panicker recently shared a glimpse into Mohanlal’s journey in an interview with a YouTube channel. Reflecting on their first meeting in 1980, Panicker recalled that Mohanlal was far from the superstar image he holds today.
“At that time, Manjil Virinja Pookkal hadn’t been released yet. Mohanlal was chubby and had curly, long hair. He looked like a thin, undernourished man. Because of the shape of his face, people jokingly called him ‘Cashew Nut Mohan.’”Panicker added that Mohanlal was not considered conventionally handsome for cinema during those days. Despite the teasing, the two became close friends. Their camaraderie has lasted decades, and it was this bond that led Panicker to approach Mohanlal for Kireedam, where he served as a co-producer.
Dedication and Discipline
What stood out for Panicker was Mohanlal’s dedication and professionalism. “If the first shot is scheduled for 6 a.m., Lal will always be on time. That level of commitment is rare among today’s stars.”Even in those early days, Mohanlal showed a relentless commitment to improving himself. “He would find time to learn dance from our friend who was a dancer. That dedication has always been there,” Panicker noted.
A Contrasting Personality
Panicker also described Mohanlal as a person of contrasts. “Among close friends, Lal is the most entertaining and fun-loving individual. But in a crowd, he’s reserved. If you want to learn diplomacy, learn it from Mohanlal. He’s shy in public gatherings even today. However, in front of a camera or a massive audience, he transforms into a completely different person.”Mohanlal’s reluctance to speak in meetings also highlights his humble personality, according to Panicker. Yet, when it comes to his craft, his dedication and adaptability shine, making him one of the most revered actors in Indian cinema. The journey from “Cashew Nut Mohan” to Malayalam’s Complete Actor is a testament to Mohanlal’s hard work, resilience, and undeniable talent.