Anant Nag Honoured with Dadasaheb Phalke Award at 72nd National Film Awards

New Delhi: Veteran actor Anant Nag was conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024 by President Droupadi Murmu at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony held at Ekta Nagar, Kevadia, Gujarat, on Tuesday.

The award recognises Nag’s outstanding contribution to Indian cinema. Presenting the honour, the President described his acting as a synthesis of the finest elements of theatre and cinema, and noted his natural, restrained and authentic performances.

Murmu congratulated all the National Film Award winners, saying their talent and hard work had enabled them to establish themselves at the national level. She said Nag’s career offered an example for future generations of artists.

Speaking about the wider role of cinema, the President said Indian films across languages and regions reflect the dreams, traditions and struggles of the people, while also portraying possibilities for the future. She noted that the awards ceremony being held near the Statue of Unity and the Wall of Unity symbolically reflected India’s cultural diversity and unity.

The President also highlighted several award-winning films for addressing social, historical and national issues. She referred to Article 370 for its portrayal of challenges concerning the country’s unity, Bhangaar for exploring dimensions of life and death, and Swatantrya Veer Savarkar for its portrayal of the life of Veer Savarkar.

She also pointed to Bhakshak, which raises awareness about women’s safety, and the Santhali film Angen, whose national recognition, she said, encouraged both cultural diversity and social inclusion.

Murmu commended the National Film Awards jury members for selecting films dealing with issues of importance to society and the nation. She stressed the need for women’s participation in every regional jury, saying that incorporating women’s perspectives helps create a more holistic understanding of human experiences.

The President also called for greater respect and sensitivity towards everyone working in the film industry. She urged representatives of the creative economy to ensure that workers, small-scale artists, assistants and those struggling to establish themselves receive dignity and social security.

Highlighting the influence of popular cinema on young people, Murmu said successful film personalities have the potential to shape public behaviour, particularly among children and youth. She urged celebrities to promote disciplined and healthy lifestyles and avoid endorsing products that are harmful to health.

“A true star is one who spreads light, not darkness,” the President said, underlining the responsibility that comes with public influence.