New Delhi, Sep 16 (PTI) Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday congratulated veteran actor Anant Nag for getting the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke award, describing him as one with an “extraordinary multi-faceted talent” and said his contributions to Kannada cinema are “immeasurable”.
Nag, known for his impressive work in Hindi and Kannada cinema in classics such as “Minchina Ota”, “Hamsageethe”, “Ankur” and “Manthan”, will be honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024, the government announced on Wednesday.
“Heartfelt congratulations to dear Shri Anant Nag on receiving the prestigious ‘Dadasaheb Phalke Award – 2024’, the highest honor in Indian cinema.
“For over five decades, his extraordinary multifaceted talent and brilliant performances in more than 300 films have enriched Indian cinema; his contributions to Kannada cinema, in particular, are immeasurable,” Kharge said in a post on X.
The Congress chief said from artistic films to rising as one of Karnataka’s most beloved actors, his life’s journey serves as an inspiration to countless artists and audiences alike.
“This honor bestowed upon a giant of Kannada cinema is a moment of immense pride for the nation and, especially, for Karnataka. I wish him continued good health and that his invaluable contributions to cinema endure for many more years,” he said.
With a filmography of more than 250 films in five decades across multiple languages, Nag is also a renowned name in the theatre world.
The 78-year-old actor will be given the award, the highest recognition in Indian cinema, at the National Film Awards ceremony in Kevadia, Gujarat, on September 22. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the veteran actor and said, “For several decades, his effortless performances, remarkable versatility and brilliance have left a very strong mark on Indian cinema, particularly Kannada cinema. In whichever role he has played, he brought rare depth and authenticity.” In a post on X, he termed the award a “richly deserved honour for a truly distinguished artist”.
After his name was announced, Nag said “nepotism” and “favouritism” had influenced award selection, but Prime Minister Modi changed the system by seeking public participation.
Nag said he was grateful to Modi for announcing the award and dedicated the honour to the people of Karnataka. PTI SKC SKC KVK KVK
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