Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty, fondly known as ‘Mithun Da,’ will be honoured with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his remarkable contributions to Indian cinema.
The announcement was made by Indian Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw, who shared the news on his official X account, stating, “Mithun Da’s remarkable cinematic journey inspires generations! Honoured to announce that the Dadasaheb Phalke Selection Jury has decided to award legendary actor Mithun Chakraborty Ji for his iconic contribution to Indian cinema.”
The award will be presented at the 70th National Film Awards ceremony on October 8, 2024, marking another milestone in Mithun Chakraborty’s illustrious career. The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is India’s highest honour in the field of cinema, recognising exceptional contributions that have shaped the industry.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended his congratulations to the veteran actor, calling him a “cultural icon” admired for his versatility. In a post on X, PM Modi expressed his delight over the recognition given to Mithun Chakraborty, stating,
“Delighted that Mithun Chakraborty Ji has been conferred the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, recognising his unparalleled contributions to Indian cinema. He is a cultural icon, admired across generations for his versatile performances. Congratulations and best wishes to him.”
Mithun Chakraborty, who recently received the prestigious Padma Bhushan, has been one of the most celebrated figures in Indian cinema. He began his illustrious career in 1976 with the film Mrigayaa, portraying a Santhal rebel, a performance that earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor. Since then, Mithun has captivated audiences with his versatility, starring in numerous films across various genres.
Reflecting on receiving the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Chakraborty said, “I never imagined that a boy from the footpath could receive such a big honour.” In an interview with ANI, he expressed his gratitude and dedicated the award to his family and fans.
“I’m literally dumbfounded, trust me. I can’t smile, I can’t cry with happiness because a man from literally nowhere, a nobody, made it.
This also proves what I always tell my fans and those who aren’t financially strong: if I can make it, then you can do it too.”
Mithun Chakraborty’s career has spanned almost five decades, with notable performances in films like Tahader Katha (1992) and Swami Vivekananda (1998), both of which earned him National Film Awards.
He is also celebrated for his contribution to Indian pop culture through his electrifying dance numbers, including hits like “I Am a Disco Dancer,” “Jimmy Jimmy,” and “Super Dancer.” These songs became instant classics, and his dance moves are still emulated by fans today.
Beyond acting, Mithun has also made his mark in politics, becoming a public figure who has inspired many with his journey from humble beginnings to stardom. Most recently, he appeared in Vivek Agnihotri’s critically acclaimed film The Kashmir Files, which added another successful chapter to his acting career.
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is a fitting recognition of Mithun Chakraborty’s immense contribution to Indian cinema. His journey from a struggling actor to becoming a national icon is a testament to his talent, resilience, and ability to connect with audiences across generations. The upcoming award ceremony on October 8 will celebrate his achievements and his impact on Indian culture and cinema.
For millions of fans, Mithun Da remains not just an actor but an inspiration—proof that hard work, dedication, and passion can lead to incredible success, no matter the starting point.
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