President Droupadi Murmu presents the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024 to veteran actor Anant Nag. Photo: PIB
Bengaluru: President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024 on veteran Bengaluru actor Anant Nag at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony held at Ekta Nagar in Kevadia, Gujarat, on Tuesday.
The award recognised Nag’s outstanding contribution to Indian cinema, according to a statement issued by the President’s Secretariat through the Press Information Bureau. Murmu also presented the 72nd National Film Awards to winners from across the country.
Congratulating the award recipients, the President said Nag’s work combines the finest elements of theatre and cinema. She described him as an actor known for natural, restrained and authentic performances, and said he sets an example for future generations of artists.
Murmu said Indian cinema reflects the country across languages and regions, embodying the dreams, traditions and struggles of its people as well as possibilities for the future. She noted that the awards ceremony was held near the Statue of Unity and the Wall of Unity.
The President praised films recognised at the awards, including Article 370, Bhangaar, Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, Bhakshak and the Santhali film Angen. She also called for women’s participation in every regional jury.
Calling for respect and sensitivity towards everyone working in the film industry, Murmu urged representatives of the creative economy to ensure dignity and social security for workers, small artists, assistants and struggling performers.
She also asked popular film personalities to use their influence responsibly, promote disciplined lifestyles and avoid endorsing products harmful to health. “A true star is one who spreads light, not darkness,” the President said.
Related: Anant Nag was named the recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award on September 16.
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