"I could not have imagined this."
Mithun Chakraborty has been entertaining Bollywood fans for over four decades.
In his illustrious career, he has starred in many hits and worked with some talented people.
Mithun will be honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his unmatched contribution to cinema.
The accolade is the highest award in Indian cinema and is named after the man who created it.
Speaking about the award, Mithun Chakraborty said: “I don’t have words. Neither can I laugh nor cry.
“This is such a big thing for a person who rose from the footpath, from a blind lane in Kolkata.
“He is now being awarded with the most prestigious award. I could not have imagined this.
“I am extremely happy and I dedicate this to my family and my fans across the world.”
Mithun’s younger son, Namashi Chakraborty, added: “Feeling extremely proud and honoured.
“My father is a self-made superstar and a great citizen. His life journey is an inspiration for millions.
“We are all feeling elated for this magnificent honour.”
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to congratulate Mithun.
Mr Modi wrote: “Delighted that Shri Mithun Chakraborty Ji has been conferred the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, recognising his unparalleled contributions to Indian cinema.
“He is a cultural icon, admired across generations for his versatile performances.
“Congratulations and best wishes to him.”
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
Another user said: “Heartiest congratulations to Mithun Da for being awarded the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, long overdue for decades.
“You were, you are, and always will be an iconic figure for Bengalis and India alike. A proud day for Bengal!
“Your contribution to Indian cinema is truly immortal.”
Mithun began his acting career with Mrigayaa (1976).
He has since appeared in classics including Do Anjaane (1976), Disco Dancer (1982), and Agneepath (1990).
In 1988, his film, Waqt Ki Aawaaz featured the final recorded song of Kishore Kumar. It was called ‘Guru Guru’ and it was a duet with Asha Bhosle.
In 1979, he married Helen Luke. After divorcing her the same year, Mithun married Yogeeta Bali.
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award was first given to Devika Rani in 1969. Previous recipients include Lata Mangeshkar, Dev Anand, and Amitabh Bachchan.
The latest recipient award was the veteran star, Waheeda Rehman.
On the work front, Mithun Chakraborty was last seen in the Bengali film, Shastri.








