Veteran Bengali actor Mithun Chakraborty has been chosen for the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the highest recognition by the Indian government for his contribution to cinema.
Making the announcement on Monday morning, India’s Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said “Mithun Da’s remarkable cinematic journey inspires generations! Honoured to announce that the Dadasaheb Phalke Selection Jury has decided to award legendary actor, Sh. Mithun Chakraborty Ji for his iconic contribution to Indian Cinema.
Mithun will be presented with the award at the 70th National Film Awards ceremony on October 8, Vaishnaw said.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated actor Mithun Chakrabarty on being selected for the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his “unparalleled contributions” to Indian cinema.
Lauding the actor, Modi said “he is a cultural icon admired across generations for his versatile performances. Congratulations and best wishes to him.”
In a career spanning nearly half a century, Mithun has acted in more than 350 films across various Indian languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Odia, Bhojpuri, and Telugu. He is known for his diverse performances, ranging from action to drama and comedy, and has won several awards, including three National Film Awards for Best Actor.
With a filmography that includes classics such as “Disco Dancer,” and “Ghar Ek Mandir,” Mithun has not only entertained millions but also shaped the landscape of Bollywood and regional cinema. His influence extends beyond the silver screen, as he continues to inspire generations through his work in film and philanthropy.
Vaishnaw “conveyed immense joy and pride in honouring one of the most cherished and iconic figures in the film industry who is known for his versatile performances and charismatic screen presence,” an official statement said.
Mithun, who has worked in Hindi and Bengali films with equal elan, made his acting debut in Mrinal Sen-directed film “Mrigayaa” (1976) in which he plays the role of a Santhan rebel. His performance earned him his first National Film Award for Best Actor.
He garnered greater fame with the 1982 Hindi film “Disco Dancer” which was a major box office success and put him in Bollywood stardom. He became a household name with his iconic role in “Disco Dancer”which not only showcased his exceptional dancing skills but also popularized disco music in Indian cinema..
Mithun’s performance in “Agneepath” fetched him the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1990.
A former Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament, Mithun is the recipient of three National Film Awards and two Filmfare Awards. In January 2024, Chakraborty was awarded Padma Bhushan, the third highest civilian honour of the Indian government.
With a distinctive dancing style and diverse roles to his credit, Mithun has showcased his acting skills in films ranging from action-packed characters to poignant dramatic performances.
“Mithun Chakraborty’s journey from a young man with humble beginnings to a celebrated film icon, embodies the spirit of hope and perseverance, proving that with passion and dedication, one can achieve even the most ambitious dreams. His dedication and hard work have made him a role model for aspiring actors and artists,” Vaishnaw said.
Born Gourang Chakraborty on June 16, 1950, in Kolkata, Mithun is an alumnus of the prestigious Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune which laid the foundation for his illustrious career in cinema.
Mithun won two more National Film Awards for his roles in Buddhadeb Dasgupta-directed Bengali film “Tahader Katha” (1992) and “Swami Vivekananda” (1998).
Besides being an actor and a producer, Mithun has been actively involved in charitable initiatives aimed at education, healthcare and supporting underprivileged communities.
“The prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award not only recognizes Mithun Chakraborty’s artistic prowess but also his enduring legacy as a compassionate and dedicated individual who has made a difference in the lives of many,” said the statement.
