Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty, one of the most beloved and iconic figures in Indian cinema, will be honoured with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award for 2022. The announcement was made by Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Railways, and Electronics & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, who recognized Mithun’s remarkable contributions to the film industry.
The award, which is the highest recognition in Indian cinema, celebrates individuals for their significant contributions to the art of filmmaking. It will be presented to Mithun Chakraborty at the 70th National Film Awards ceremony on October 8, 2024.
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.
🗓️To be presented at the 70th National…
— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) September 30, 2024
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, congratulating Mithun Chakraborty in post on X, said, “Delighted that Shri Mithun Chakraborty Ji has been honored with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, acknowledging his unmatched contributions to Indian cinema. He is a cultural icon, admired by generations for his versatile performances. My heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to him.”
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… https://t.co/aFpL2qMKlo
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 30, 2024
Mithun Chakraborty, born Gourang Chakraborty on June 16, 1950, in Kolkata, West Bengal, embarked on his cinematic journey with Mrinal Sen’s Mrigayaa (1976). His debut performance, in which he portrayed a Santhal tribal rebel, earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor, setting the tone for what would become an illustrious career spanning nearly five decades. He emerged as a powerhouse of talent, taking on roles that ranged from hard-hitting action heroes to sensitive, introspective characters. His adaptability as an actor is what made him a force in both mainstream and parallel cinema.
The 1980s marked a turning point in Mithun’s career. He soared to unprecedented heights of fame with the release of Disco Dancer in 1982. Directed by Babbar Subhash, this film was a musical drama that capitalised on the global disco craze, and Mithun’s vibrant and energetic dance numbers turned him into an international star. His iconic moves and the film’s catchy tunes made Disco Dancer a massive hit not only in India but also in the Soviet Union, establishing Mithun as a global sensation.
He became synonymous with high-energy performances and his unique dance style, earning him the moniker of “Disco King.” With the success of Disco Dancer, Mithun solidified his place in Bollywood’s pantheon of superstars. However, despite being best known for his dance-oriented roles, Mithun’s versatility allowed him to shine in a wide range of genres.
Over the years, Mithun Chakraborty continued to leave an indelible mark on Indian cinema. His filmography boasts more than 350 films across various languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Odia, Bhojpuri, and Telugu. He is one of the few actors to have gained a pan-Indian appeal, bridging regional cinema and Bollywood with ease.
In 1990, Mithun delivered a powerful performance in Mukul Anand’s Agneepath, where he played the role of Krishnan Iyer, a humble coconut-seller who becomes a trusted confidant to Amitabh Bachchan’s character, Vijay. His portrayal earned him a Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor, showcasing once again his range as a performer. The contrast between his characters—from a dancing sensation in Disco Dancer to a grounded and warm-hearted sidekick in Agneepath—reflected his incredible versatility.
His talent did not go unnoticed in serious cinema either. Mithun went on to win two more National Film Awards for Best Actor: for Buddhadeb Dasgupta’s Tahader Katha (1992), in which he played a freedom fighter dealing with post-independence trauma, and for Swami Vivekananda (1998), where his portrayal of the revered spiritual leader earned critical acclaim.
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award jury, which included notable figures like Asha Parekh, Khushbu Sundar, and Vipul Amrutlal Shah, not only recognised Mithun Chakraborty’s cinematic achievements but also his longstanding dedication to social causes. Over the years, Mithun has been deeply involved in philanthropy, especially in areas related to education and healthcare. He has actively supported initiatives aimed at uplifting underprivileged communities, proving that his compassion extends beyond the screen.
Mithun’s journey from a boy born into a humble family in Kolkata to a national icon resonates with millions. He has often spoken about his roots and the struggles he faced in his early years. His rise from the bylanes of Kolkata, where he had little more than dreams and determination, is an inspiring story for all. In an emotional response to the news of his award, Mithun reflected on this journey, saying, “I come from the footpaths of Kolkata; I have risen from nothing. A boy from such a place winning such an honour… I could not have imagined this. I dedicate this to my family and my fans across the world.”
In addition to his film and charitable work, Mithun Chakraborty has also served the nation in a political capacity. In 2014, he was nominated to the Rajya Sabha as a Member of Parliament, where he advocated for various causes, particularly those affecting marginalised communities. Although his tenure in politics was relatively short-lived due to health issues, his commitment to public service has remained unwavering, further enhancing his legacy as a multifaceted personality who has touched lives both on and off the screen.
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is considered the highest honour in Indian cinema. Since its inception in 1969, the award has been bestowed upon some of the most iconic and influential figures in the film industry. Mithun Chakraborty now joins a select group of legendary actors, including Raj Kapoor, Dev Anand, and Lata Mangeshkar, who have received this prestigious award.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, while announcing the award, spoke of the actor’s influence on Indian cinema: “Mithun Da’s remarkable cinematic journey inspires generations! He has not only entertained millions but has also left an indelible mark on the landscape of Bollywood and regional cinema.”
The 70th National Film Awards ceremony, scheduled for October 8, 2024, will be a celebration of Mithun Chakraborty’s contributions to Indian cinema, as well as his impact on society. With his diverse filmography, social commitment, and role in public service, Mithun Da’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors, filmmakers, and fans alike.
From his debut in Mrinal Sen’s Mrigayaa to his iconic role in Disco Dancer, and his moving performances in films like Tahader Katha, Mithun Chakraborty has not only entertained millions but has shaped the landscape of Indian cinema. His journey is a testament to his resilience, passion, and talent. Whether through his charismatic screen presence or his dedication to social causes, Mithun Da remains a symbol of hope, perseverance, and inspiration.
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