New Delhi: In a ceremony laden with symbolism and respect, actor Mohanlal who holds the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Territorial Army today met Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi at the Army Headquarters. During the meeting he was presented with the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Card in recognition of his extended service, philanthropy and deep bond with the armed forces.
Clad in his uniform, Mohanlal expressed his gratitude calling the occasion “a moment of immense pride and humility.” He thanked the Army the Territorial Army and his parent unit for their unwavering support over the years.
The Honorary Role & Its Significance
Mohanlal has held the honorary rank since May 2009 when he was inducted into the Territorial Army by then-Chief of the Army Staff General Deepak Kapoor. The New Indian Express+3mint+3The Indian Express+3 He was the first Indian actor to be conferred such an honour intended to bridge the world of culture and national service.
It is important to note: his commission is honorary not an active operational role. The Territorial Army (TA) is a part of India’s reserve forces whose mandate includes supporting civil administration, disaster relief and relieving regular Army units from static duties as needed.
Despite the honorary nature, Mohanlal has remained engaged with TA activities, public awareness, and outreach, helping popularize the idea of citizen-soldiery and national service.
The Commendation Ceremony & Context
- The COAS Commendation Card was presented to Mohanlal by General Dwivedi in the presence of senior Army officers.
- The meeting also included discussions on improving the efficiency of Territorial Army battalions, and possible collaborative social initiatives in health, education or disaster response.
- Mohanlal’s connection to the Army has seen visible action in past relief efforts, including during the Wayanad landslide in 2024 where he supported the Army and local efforts in impacted zones.
As the Army’s press note states the felicitation was a recognition of “spirit of service, philanthropy and unwavering respect for the uniform.”
Public Perception & Cultural Impact
Mohanlal’s dual identity as a celebrated cinematic icon and honorary military figure resonates deeply especially in Kerala and among fans across India. His on-screen portrayals of soldiers (notably in the Major Mahadevan series) have already cemented his image as one who champions national causes.
The commendation serves multiple narratives:
- It strengthens the bridge between citizenry and the armed forces.
- It underscores the soft power of film personalities in promoting patriotism.
- It brings attention to the Territorial Army’s role, often less visible in mainstream discourse.
Looking Ahead: What This Could Lead To
While his role remains honorary Mohanlal’s association might pave the way for:
- Greater public outreach and recruitment interest in the TA especially in Kerala and southern India.
- Collaborative social initiatives in disaster management, rural service or veteran welfare areas where his foundation ViswaSanthi already works.
- Awareness campaigns to highlight the role of reserve forces in national security and civil resilience.
For Mohanlal the commendation is more than a symbolic gesture it is an affirmation of his long-standing commitment to service beyond the screen.
Conclusion
The Army Chief’s recognition of Mohanlal today is a testament to how public figures can transcend entertainment, integrating service, identity and national ethos. Though this does not place him in a combat role it blesses his journey as an ambassador of the armed forces, propelling his voice in causes of national importance.
