In a film industry where fame often fades as quickly as social media trends rise, one actor continues to rise above generational shifts and transient popularity—Mohanlal. Affectionately referred to as Lalettan by his fans, Mohanlal isn’t just a popular actor; he is an enduring symbol of Malayalam cinema itself. Over the past four decades, his name has become inseparable from the industry’s growth and transformation. And if anyone still doubts his box office might, a look at Malayalam cinema’s top-grossing films will quickly erase that skepticism.
Among the ten highest-grossing Malayalam films of all time, Mohanlal headlines four—a distinction no other contemporary actor can match. Even more impressive is that two of these four blockbusters were released in 2025 alone. With an already illustrious career full of milestones, this new chapter confirms that Mohanlal is not merely preserving his legacy; he is boldly redefining it.
Here’s how Mohanlal ranks in the history of Malayalam cinema’s box office success in India:
- L2: Empuraan – Rs 105.25 crore (2025)
- Thudarum – Rs 101.65 crore (2025)
- Pulimurugan – Rs 76.67 crore (2016)
- Lucifer – Rs 65.21 crore (2019)
The two latest additions—L2: Empuraan and Thudarum—haven’t just entered the elite Rs 100 crore club; they’ve soared well past it. Empuraan, the much-anticipated sequel to the 2019 political thriller Lucifer, is now the highest-grossing Malayalam film of all time, collecting an enormous Rs 268.05 crore worldwide. Hot on its heels is Thudarum, a compelling social drama that has crossed the Rs 200 crore mark—a number once thought impossible for Malayalam films.
Add to this list Pulimurugan, the first Malayalam movie to surpass Rs 100 crore globally, and Lucifer, which redefined the political thriller genre in Kerala, and a clear narrative emerges: Mohanlal is the unrivaled king of the Malayalam box office.
What makes this accomplishment all the more remarkable isn’t just the revenue these films have generated but the broad variety they represent. Pulimurugan thrilled audiences with adrenaline-filled action sequences and became a festive favorite. Lucifer delved into political intrigue and treachery, carried by Mohanlal’s restrained yet magnetic performance. Empuraan expanded that world with higher stakes and darker themes. Meanwhile, Thudarum offered a modern social thriller that allowed Mohanlal to embody a deeply emotional and layered character, proving once again that he can blend substance with star power effortlessly.
While most actors rely on one genre for their commercial success, Mohanlal’s true strength lies in his versatility. He effortlessly transitions between intense thrillers, emotional dramas, and grand-scale action films. This ability to adapt while staying true to his artistic roots is part of what sustains his enduring appeal.
A particularly noteworthy aspect of Mohanlal’s recent success is his role in creating Malayalam cinema’s first full-fledged franchise. With Lucifer and Empuraan, he has ignited a level of fan excitement usually reserved for big-budget franchises like Baahubali or KGF. These aren’t just films; they have become cultural spectacles. The anticipation is already high for the third installment, L3: The Beginning, which will also feature his son, Pranav Mohanlal. In many ways, the Lucifer universe is Kerala’s homegrown reply to the epic cinematic universes crafted in other Indian film industries.
Beyond his superstar image, Mohanlal holds a special place in the hearts of Keralites. He’s more than a celebrated actor; he’s like family. His roles resonate with people from all walks of life—from college youth to elderly viewers. Whether he’s playing a rebellious youngster, a tormented father, a humble village savior, or a strategic political player, his performances always strike a chord with the Malayali audience.
Even now, young audiences are discovering his classic films like Kireedam, Bharatham, Chithram, and Vanaprastham, and finding the same depth and magic that captivated their parents’ generation. This generational bridge is what keeps his fandom both loyal and ever-expanding.
Mohanlal’s lasting relevance doesn’t come from blindly chasing modern trends. While Malayalam cinema evolves with new-wave, content-rich films like 2018, Manjummel Boys, and Premalu, Mohanlal continues to deliver massive hits that cater to both mass and niche audiences. His 2025 filmography is testament to this balance. Alongside massive commercial hits like Empuraan and Thudarum, he’s also set to appear in a wide range of upcoming projects that span different genres and character arcs.
His journey is nothing short of a textbook example in how to stay relevant in an ever-changing industry. Mohanlal collaborates with new-age directors, explores fresh storytelling methods, and yet never lets go of the core essence that made him a beloved figure in the first place.
Even with the rise of OTT platforms and younger stars making their presence felt, Mohanlal’s films still manage to attract packed theatres, pre-release fan celebrations, and phenomenal ticket sales on a global scale. His screen presence and popularity remain untouched by age or changing audience dynamics.
As 2025 unfolds, Mohanlal has not only secured four positions in the list of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of all time, but also delivered two of the biggest hits in the same year. That achievement alone cements his status not just as a superstar but as a symbol of Malayalam cinema’s legacy, evolution, and promise for the future.
Mohanlal’s continued success is more than just a nostalgic celebration of a beloved actor; it’s a reaffirmation that genuine talent, adaptability, and emotional connection with the audience can withstand the test of time. As Malayalam cinema continues to grow and diversify, Mohanlal remains its most towering, enduring figure—someone who doesn’t merely represent its history but actively shapes its future.