Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty, known for his stellar contributions to Indian cinema, is set to receive the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award at the 70th National Film Awards ceremony on October 8, 2024. Mithun made his acting debut in the 1976 art house film *Mrigayaa*, directed by Mrinal Sen, which earned him his first National Film Award for Best Actor. This recognition marks a significant milestone in the 74-year-old actor’s long and illustrious career.
The news of Mithun being conferred with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award was shared by Information & Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on X (formerly Twitter), where he praised the actor’s remarkable cinematic journey. Vaishnaw wrote, “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.”
Reacting to this honour, Mithun expressed his overwhelming gratitude in an interview with ANI, saying, “I have no language to express how I feel. Na main hass sakta hun, na Khushi mein ro sakta hun (I cannot smile, nor can I cry in happiness). I come from the bylanes of Kolkata, a boy from such a place winning such an honour…I could not have imagined this.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also congratulated Mithun, calling him a “cultural icon” and applauding his versatile performances that have inspired generations of film enthusiasts.
Mithun’s son, Namashi Chakraborty, expressed his pride in his father’s achievement, stating that his father’s self-made journey and success are an inspiration to millions. Earlier this year, Mithun was also honoured with the Padma Bhushan Award.
Mithun’s journey to stardom skyrocketed in the 1980s, with hits like *Disco Dancer*, *Surakshaa*, and *Pyar Jhukta Nahin*. His iconic dance numbers such as “I Am a Disco Dancer” and “Jimmy Jimmy” cemented his place as a Bollywood legend, earning him the title of ‘Disco Dancer’.
