Addressing the gathering, Mohanlal shared that his journey in cinema began right at the feet of the Goddess. He recalled that it was on September 3, 1978, that the “Pooja” for his first film, Thiranottam, was held at the temple premises. He reminisced that his very first shot as an actor was filmed right in front of the temple, and he took a moment to gratefully remember his lifelong friends, Priyadarshan and Suresh Kumar, who were with him during those early days.
Beyond his career, the actor highlighted that his personal life also found its beginning in this sanctuary. He tied the wedding knot with his wife, Suchitra, at this holy shrine on April 28, 1988. He expressed his firm belief that their 36 years of happy married life is a direct blessing from Attukal Amma.
Reflecting on his childhood in Thiruvananthapuram, Mohanlal described the Pongala festival as the “Vishu or Thiruvonam of the capital city.” He shared nostalgic memories of walking to the temple from Poojappura and Karamana as a young boy, long before the temple complex had undergone its modern expansion. He also recalled the excitement of watching “Punya Purana” (mythological) films that were screened for devotees staying overnight during the festival.
“I have always been amazed by this magnificent gathering, recognized as the world’s largest congregation of women,” Mohanlal remarked. He noted that although he had been unable to attend the ceremony for many years due to various reasons, he considers his presence this year as a divine blessing. He concluded his speech with a prayer for the Goddess to protect the land and its people. The event was attended by various dignitaries and members of the Temple Trust. (TIM TVM)
For more details: Navamalayalam.com