Mohanlal Reports Possession of Ivory Items Amid Ongoing Legal Issues

Mohanlal, the celebrated Malayalam actor, has declared possession of 10 elephant tusks and 13 ivory idols to the Kerala Forest Department as part of a wildlife amnesty scheme. This declaration occurs amidst ongoing legal challenges stemming from a 2011 raid at his residence. The actor asserts that the tusks were inherited or gifted, and the items will undergo DNA testing for verification. Despite attempts by the state government to withdraw the case, legal proceedings continue. Professionally, Mohanlal is busy with multiple upcoming projects, including the film 'Athimanoharam', set for release on December 24.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 6, 2026, 12:04 IST

Mohanlal's Ivory Declaration to Kerala Forest Department

The renowned Malayalam actor Mohanlal has officially reported the possession of 10 elephant tusks and 13 ivory idols to the Kerala Forest Department as part of the state's wildlife amnesty initiative. This declaration comes while he is still embroiled in a protracted wildlife case. The submission was made to the Malayattoor Divisional Forest Office, which facilitates the voluntary disclosure of wildlife items to regularize ownership and prevent legal repercussions. The newly reported items include ivory idols representing deities such as Lord Krishna, Lord Ram, and Tirupati Balaji. This situation stems from a raid conducted in 2011, which has led to numerous legal developments and court hearings.

Mohanlal's Participation in the Amnesty Program

Officials from the Malayattoor Divisional Forest Office confirmed that Mohanlal has taken part in the ongoing amnesty program. Previously, he had declared four tusks and has now added six more along with 13 ivory idols, totaling approximately 46 kg. The actor asserts that these tusks were either inherited or received as gifts. Forest officials have indicated that DNA testing will be conducted to ascertain the origin and authenticity of these items.

Background of the Ivory Possession Case

This case traces back to August 2011, when the Income Tax Department discovered elephant tusks and ivory artifacts during a raid at Mohanlal’s residence in Kochi, subsequently referring the matter to the Forest Department. He was charged with illegal possession of wildlife items. Although the state government previously sought to dismiss the case, both the trial court and the Kerala High Court denied this request, allowing the case to proceed. In 2016, the High Court also annulled ownership certificates previously granted to him due to procedural errors. The court noted that the state could issue notifications permitting individuals or specific groups to declare wildlife items in their possession and seek legal protection under the amnesty scheme.

On the professional front, Mohanlal has an exciting lineup of upcoming films. He is currently filming Athimanoharam, directed by Tharun Moorthy, where he portrays a police officer after a significant hiatus. This film is expected to hit theaters on December 24.

Recently, he appeared in Jeethu Joseph’s Drishyam 3. Additionally, Mohanlal has announced Nedumkandam Miracle, directed by Dileesh Pothan and produced by Achu Baby John. He has also signed on for his 367th film, tentatively titled L367, which will be directed by Vishnu Mohan, known for Meppadiyan. Furthermore, he is set to reunite with director Priyadarshan for another project.