Kannada Cinema Veteran Anant Nag to Receive Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2024; PM Modi Hails His ‘Remarkable Versatility’
Bengaluru: Veteran actor Anant Nag will be conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024 for his contribution to Indian cinema, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulating the acclaimed actor and highlighting the impact of his decades-long work, particularly in Kannada cinema.
The Government of India announced the honour on the recommendation of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award Selection Committee, according to information shared by the Press Information Bureau on X.
The award will be presented at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony on September 22, 2026, at Kevadia, Gujarat.
Announcing the selection, PIB said Anant Nag would receive the prestigious award in recognition of his contribution to Indian cinema and his cinematic journey that has inspired generations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Anant Nag following the announcement and described him as a legendary actor whose performances and versatility had made a significant impact on Indian cinema over several decades.
Modi particularly highlighted Anant Nag’s contribution to Kannada cinema, saying his work had left a strong mark on the industry.
The Prime Minister said that across the different roles he had portrayed, Anant Nag brought depth and authenticity to his performances. He described the award as a richly deserved honour for a distinguished artist.
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is the Government of India’s highest honour in the field of cinema and recognises outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema. It was instituted in 1969 in commemoration of Dadasaheb Phalke’s contribution to Indian cinema.
Anant Nag’s selection also puts Kannada cinema in the national spotlight at the 72nd National Film Awards, which recognise achievements in Indian cinema for the year 2024.
The September 22 ceremony will bring together filmmakers, actors, technicians and other artists from across the country.
