Mohanlal to be given Lt. Colonel title

Wednesday, December 17, 2008, 12:24 [IST]
For the first time in Indian history, an actor will be conferred the honorary title of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army (TA), a citizen's force of the Indian army. It's is none other than Malayalam superstar Mohanlal.

The only other celebrity to get this prestigious title is former cricket captain Kapil Dev. Notably, the age limit for joining the TA, which has been fixed at 42, has been relaxed for Mohanlal, who is 48. The actor sought to join the citizens" army after portraying a brave soldier in Keerthichakra (2006) and Kurukshetra (2008), both directed by Major Ravi.

The Chief of Staff of the Army has reportedly recommended the veteran actor's name to the Defence Ministry. Mohanlal will be attached to the infantry battalion in Kannur, Kerala. However, the official decision will be taken soon.

The Territorial Army is a voluntary part-time honorary civilian force that plays a key role in the defence of the country. It provides an opportunity to civilians to receive military training and also provide the country with a reserve force that can assist the regular army during operations.
User Comments
Biju JOhn 12 Jul 2009 03:14 am
This has disheartened many of us, true loving Indian citizen that a country which has a glorified history, is giving away such distinction to a person who is not in any way related to the Indian Army, neither has done any kind of service in the Indian Army.
hary 29 Dec 2008 11:55 pm
super mega star mohanlal,, You have really made all Indian actors specially keralites proud with this honour ... Here After Lt.Colonel Super mega star MOHANLAL...
Sree 19 Dec 2008 12:51 am
What an insult to all the Lt Colonels in the Army. How could they give this title to this bag of potatoes. This is crossing the line between reality and fiction. He should politely refuse this title.
Sanketi 17 Dec 2008 03:33 pm
Kudos to Mohanlal! You have really made all Keralites proud with this honour
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