Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty, popularly known as 'Mithun Da', has been selected for the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award for 2022. The announcement was made by Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Ashwini Vaishnaw, who expressed his pride in recognizing Mithun’s extraordinary contributions to Indian cinema.

Mithun Chakraborty rose to prominence in the 1980s with his breakthrough role in Disco Dancer (1982), a film that became a massive hit both domestically and internationally. The film not only showcased Mithun's impeccable dancing skills but also introduced disco music to Indian cinema, establishing him as a cultural sensation. His performance left an indelible mark on Bollywood and made him a household name.

Having begun his acting career with Mrigayaa (1976), Mithun’s portrayal of a Santhal rebel in the Mrinal Sen-directed film won him his first National Film Award for Best Actor. This early success laid the groundwork for a remarkable career spanning nearly five decades, during which Mithun acted in more than 350 films across Hindi, Bengali, Odia, Bhojpuri, and Telugu languages.

Mithun's versatility as an actor is reflected in the wide range of roles he has played, from action-packed heroes to emotionally charged characters. Notable films like Agneepath (1990) earned him a Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor, while his powerful performances in Tahader Katha (1992) and Swami Vivekananda (1998) earned him two additional National Film Awards for Best Actor.

The Dadasaheb Phalke Award Selection Committee, comprising esteemed members such as Asha Parekh, Khushbu Sundar, and Vipul Amrutlal Shah, selected Mithun for the lifetime achievement honor in recognition of his enduring impact on Indian cinema.

A Legacy Beyond Cinema

In addition to his achievements in film, Mithun is known for his philanthropic efforts and contributions to social causes. His charitable initiatives in the fields of education and healthcare, as well as his work for underprivileged communities, exemplify his commitment to improving society. Additionally, Mithun has served as a Member of Parliament, further demonstrating his dedication to public service.

Over the years, Mithun has received numerous awards, including the Padma Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian honors, for his outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry. His extensive filmography, which includes iconic titles such as Disco Dancer and Ghar Ek Mandir, has left an indelible impact on both Bollywood and regional cinema.

The Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to Mithun Chakraborty at the 70th National Film Awards ceremony, scheduled for October 8, 2024. This prestigious honor further cements Mithun’s legacy as not only a cinematic icon but also a compassionate individual dedicated to making a positive difference in the world.

“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,” tweeted PM Modi.

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