Actor-politician Mithun Chakraborty, will be honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his ‘iconic contribution to the Indian cinema’, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Monday, September 30. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recognised Mithun Chakraborty’s “unparalleled contributions to Indian cinema,” endorsing him as a “cultural icon” after he was named nominee for Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
“Delighted that Shri Mithun Chakraborty Ji has been conferred the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, recognizing his unparalleled contributions to Indian cinema. He is a cultural icon, admired across generations for his versatile performances. Congratulations and best wishes to him,” the Prime Minister posted.
Meanwhile, Mithun Chakraborty shared his reaction to the honour. He spoke with ANI and said, “I don’t have words. Neither I can laugh nor cry. This is such a big thing… I could not have imagined this. I am extremely happy. I dedicate this to my family and my fans across the world.”
Dadasaheb Phalke Awards: Mithun Chakraborty is the 54th Recipient
The actor will be felicitated with the award at the 70th National Film Awards ceremony, which will be held on October 8. Mithun Chakraborty is the 54th winner of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, which was started in 1969 in honour of Dadasaheb Phalke, known as the father of Indian cinema.
53 veterans from the fields of Bollywood, cinema, and music, such as Raj Kapoor, Shashi Kapoor, Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, and Yash Chopra, have received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award before Mithun Chakraborty. Actor Waheeda Rehman received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2021.
Mithun Chakraborty’s Acting Journey
Mithun Chakraborty made his acting debut in 1976 with the National Award-winning film Mrigayaa, directed by Mrinal Sen, where he earned his first National Film Award for Best Actor. Earlier this year, he was honored with the Padma Bhushan Award.
In the 1980s, Mithun rose to fame with Bollywood blockbusters such as Disco Dancer, Kasam Paida Karne Wale Ki, and Commando. His unforgettable dance performances in songs like “I Am a Disco Dancer” and “Jimmy Jimmy” earned him the nickname ‘Disco Dancer’ among his fans.
