Mohanlal Personally Covers Financial Losses from Unsuccessful Films, Reveals Producer
In a remarkable disclosure that highlights the integrity of one of India's most celebrated actors, producer Santhosh T. Kuruvilla has revealed that Mollywood superstar Mohanlal personally absorbs financial losses when his films fail to recover their investment at the box office. This practice stands in stark contrast to the industry norm where top actors typically receive their full remuneration regardless of a film's commercial performance.
Direct Conversations During 'Neerali' Shoot Unveil Actor's Philosophy
Kuruvilla shared these insights during an interview with Movie World Media, recalling intimate conversations with the actor during the filming of 'Neerali' in Mumbai. "During the shoot of Neerali, Mohanlal had only two staff members with him. I was also there. We were in Bombay, and we used to talk every day. Our hotel rooms were right next to each other," Kuruvilla explained, emphasizing the personal nature of their discussions.
It was during these extended conversations that Mohanlal himself revealed his financial approach. "While talking like that all the time, this came from Mohanlal's own mouth," Kuruvilla stated, adding that the actor would adjust any losses from the salary owed to him after final accounts were settled.
Artist Over Businessman: Mohanlal's Core Belief
The producer elaborated on Mohanlal's fundamental philosophy regarding art and commerce. "Mohanlal is an artist. An artist should never become a businessman for any reason. If he becomes a businessman, his art will leave him," Kuruvilla quoted the actor as saying. This perspective explains why the superstar prioritizes creative integrity over financial returns, even when facing commercial disappointments.
Kuruvilla noted that despite appearing in numerous hit films throughout his illustrious career, Mohanlal would sometimes discover that final accounting revealed minimal profits or even losses. "Even though many big hit films had released before that, when the final accounts were checked, nothing much remained. There would be losses. Whatever loss there was, it would be deducted from the salary to be given to him," the producer revealed.
Financial Discipline and Career Evolution
The interview also touched upon how Mohanlal's financial management evolved over time. According to Kuruvilla, the actor's career gained better structure and improved project selection after Antony Perumbavoor became a regular collaborator. "After Antony Perumbavoor came in, Mohanlal got good films and financial discipline. I came to know Mohanlal only after that," Kuruvilla explained, while acknowledging he wasn't familiar with the period before this professional partnership.
This development marked a significant turning point in the superstar's career, combining artistic vision with more prudent financial practices while maintaining his core commitment to the craft of acting.
Recent Career Challenges and Future Prospects
The revelation comes at a time when Mohanlal's most recent film 'Vrusshabha' has turned out to be a commercial disappointment, receiving poor reviews and underperforming at the box office. This follows what many considered a grand comeback with 'Thudarum,' making the 'Vrusshabha' outcome particularly notable.
Despite this setback, fans remain optimistic about the actor's future projects, with particular anticipation building for the much-awaited 'Drishyam 3,' scheduled for release on April 2. The film represents another opportunity for the superstar to demonstrate both his artistic prowess and the financial principles that have defined his approach to cinema throughout his career.
Kuruvilla's insights provide a rare glimpse into the ethical framework and personal integrity of one of Indian cinema's most respected figures, revealing a commitment to artistic values that transcends commercial considerations in an industry often driven by financial metrics.
