Bollywood actor Mithun Chakraborty on Dadasaheb Phalke award honour: "From nowhere to stardom"

Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty, known for iconic roles such as in 'Disco Dancer,' has been named the recipient of the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award. Reflecting on the honour, he says, "I never imagined that a boy from the footpath could receive such a big award."

The three-time National Award winning actor, who has inspired generations with his journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of Bollywood's most celebrated stars, dedicated the award to those who have supported him along the way.

"I can only say that I dedicate this award to my family and all my fans around the world. Where I come from, from a blind alley in Kolkata, I never imagined that a boy from the footpath could receive such a big honor," the actor-turned politican said in an exclusive interview.

"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," he told ANI.

The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is highest government honour accorded for contributions in the field of cinema.

The announcement was made by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on his X account earlier in today. "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."

The award will be presented to Chakraborty at the 70th National Film Awards ceremony on October 8, 2024, Vaishnaw said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the "cultural icon" on the honour. "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."

Fondly referred to as 'Mithun Da' by his fans, he made his film debut in 1976 with 'Mrigayaa', captivating audiences with his versatile acting skills ever since.

Mithun's initial portrayal of a Santhal rebel earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor in his debut film.

He later received two additional National Film Awards for his performances in 'Tahader Katha' (1992) and 'Swami Vivekananda' (1998).

Beyond his acting prowess, Mithun also made a significant mark in the music industry with his electrifying dance numbers, including hits like 'I Am a Disco Dancer,' 'Jimmy Jimmy,' and 'Super Dancer.'

These tracks have become iconic and remain beloved by fans across generations.

Most recently, Mithun Chakraborty appeared in Vivek Agnihotri's critically acclaimed film 'The Kashmir Files'.