Mohanlal's Ivory Surrender: Legal Troubles and Upcoming Projects

Mohanlal, the celebrated Malayalam actor, is in the spotlight for surrendering ivory articles to the Kerala Forest Department amid ongoing legal issues. This decision follows years of legal battles regarding the ownership of elephant tusks and ivory artifacts found at his residence. The Kerala High Court's recent rulings have prompted this move, raising questions about the implications for the actor. Meanwhile, Mohanlal is busy with several film projects, including 'Athimanoharam,' set for release on December 24, and other exciting collaborations. Read on to learn more about the legal intricacies and his upcoming cinematic ventures.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 5, 2026, 07:54 IST

Mohanlal's Legal Dilemma Over Ivory Articles

Renowned Malayalam actor Mohanlal has recently garnered attention for reasons beyond his cinematic endeavors. He has initiated the process to surrender ivory items in his possession to the Kerala Forest Department, a step taken under the state's one-time amnesty initiative. This decision follows a prolonged legal battle concerning the ownership of elephant tusks and various ivory artifacts that were seized from the actor's residence in Kochi. With renewed interest in the case, many are curious about Mohanlal's motivations for surrendering these items and the implications of the latest legal developments. Below is an overview of the case's background and its current status.

Understanding the Ivory Case: Mohanlal's Legal Challenges

Mohanlal has formally applied to relinquish the ivory articles, with the application submitted to Malayattoor Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) P Karthik in March 2025. This application has been forwarded to the Chief Wildlife Warden for further evaluation. The origins of this issue trace back to August 2011, when the Income Tax Department discovered two pairs of elephant tusks and 13 ivory artifacts during a raid at Mohanlal's home in Thevara, Kochi. Subsequently, the case was handed over to the Forest Department for further investigation.

In 2016, the Kerala government had issued ownership certificates for the tusks and ivory items to Mohanlal. However, these certificates were later annulled by the Kerala High Court, which determined that they were not issued following the correct legal procedures. According to the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972, possessing elephant tusks and other wildlife items necessitates authorization from the Chief Wildlife Warden. Nonetheless, Section 40(4) of the Act permits the government to grant exemptions under specific conditions.

Current Developments in Mohanlal's Ivory Case

In light of the Kerala High Court's observations, Mohanlal opted to surrender the ivory items under the Forest Department's amnesty scheme. Following his application, senior officials from the Forest Department visited his Kochi residence to conduct an inquiry as part of the verification process. While the previous ownership certificates were revoked, the High Court clarified that the government retains the authority to issue a new notification under Section 40(4) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act.

The court noted that the state could notify individuals or specific groups to declare any wildlife articles they possess and seek legal protection under the amnesty framework. Currently, Mohanlal's application is pending further action from the Chief Wildlife Warden.

Mohanlal's Upcoming Film Projects

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

Additionally, he has announced a new project titled 'Nedumkandam Miracle,' directed by Dileesh Pothan and produced by Achu Baby John. Furthermore, Mohanlal has signed on for his 367th film, tentatively named 'L367,' which will be helmed by Vishnu Mohan, the director of 'Meppadiyan.' He is also set to collaborate with director Priyadarshan.