From Kannada cinema to Hindi films and the television world of Malgudi Days, veteran actor Anant Nag has been named the recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024, the Government of India announced on Wednesday.
Karnataka chief minister D K Shivakumar also congratulated Nag, calling the recognition a matter of pride for Kannadigas.
“Kannada cinema’s veteran actor, unparalleled artist and versatile talent Anant Nag being announced as the recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024, one of the highest honours in Indian cinema, is a matter of pride for all Kannadigas,” Shivakumar said in a post on X.
The 78-year-old actor will receive the honour at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony in Kevadia, Gujarat, on September 22. Born Anant Nagarkatte on September 4, 1948, Nag began his film career with the Kannada film Sankalp. His work subsequently extended across Kannada, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam and Marathi cinema, with his filmography crossing 300 films.
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is regarded as India’s highest honour in cinema and recognises an individual’s contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema. The selection followed a recommendation from the Dadasaheb Phalke Award Selection Committee. Noting his contribution to Kannada cinema and the range of characters he has portrayed over several decades, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X, “Congratulations to the legendary Anant Nag Ji on being conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. He later entered Hindi cinema with Ankur.
“This is indeed a richly deserved honour for a truly distinguished artist,” Modi added.
Nag’s presence also extended beyond the cinema screen. He appeared in Malgudi Days, the popular Doordarshan series based on the stories of writer R K Narayan. The programme became another enduring part of his career and introduced his work to a wider television audience.
Earlier reporting noted: Veteran actor Anant Nag to receive Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2024, PM Narendra Modi congratulates him Anant Nag to be presented with Dadasaheb Phalke Award Anant Nag to be presented with Dadasaheb Phalke Award
Earlier reporting noted: Congratulating Anant Nag, the ministry wrote, “A lifetime of cinematic excellence, celebrated. 🎬🏆 The Government of India announces the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2024 for Anant Nag’s outstanding contribution to Indian cinema and an illustrious journey that has inspired generations. 📅 22 September 2026 📍 Kevadia, Gujarat The award will be presented at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony. #NationalFilmAwards #DadasahebPhalkeAward.”
Earlier reporting noted: The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is instituted by the Government of India to honour individuals for their outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema. It is presented annually as part of the National Film Awards and is considered India’s highest honour in cinema.
