Veteran actor Anant Nag will receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting announced the honour. Notably, he will receive it at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony. Moreover, his career spans more than five decades and over 300 films.
Anant Nag’s Film Journey
Anant Nag began his acting journey with the Kannada film Sankalpa. Since then, his career has spread across many Indian languages. For example, he has worked in Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam, Tamil and Marathi films. Also, viewers loved his role in the TV series Malgudi Days.
In addition, he acted in Shyam Benegal’s classic Hindi films such as Ankur, Nishant and Bhumika. Thus, he moved easily between art cinema, comedy and strong character roles.
What the Government Said
Union Minister L Murugan praised his effortless and versatile performances. According to him, very few actors move so smoothly between arthouse films, classic comedies and powerful roles. Indeed, the award honours a cinematic journey that has inspired generations.
About the Dadasaheb Phalke Award
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is India’s highest honour in cinema. The Government of India started it in 1969. It is named after Dadasaheb Phalke, the father of Indian cinema. Notably, Phalke made Raja Harishchandra (1913), India’s first full-length feature film. Also, Devika Rani became the first person to receive this award.
The award includes a Swarna Kamal (Golden Lotus), a cash prize and a shawl. Previously, Malayalam superstar Mohanlal received the award for 2023.
72nd National Film Awards
The 72nd National Film Awards honour films from 2024. At the same ceremony, Garhwali film Dholi won the award for Best Garhwali Film. Meanwhile, “Article 370” won Best Feature Film. So, the ceremony had a special link with Uttarakhand too.
Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2024: Key Facts
- Awardee: Anant Nag
- Award year: 2024
- Ceremony: 72nd National Film Awards
- First film: Sankalpa (Kannada)
- Previous awardee (2023): Mohanlal
- First awardee (1969): Devika Rani
Why the Dadasaheb Phalke Award Matters for UPSC and UKPSC
Notably, award winners often appear in prelims current affairs questions. So, remember the awardee, the year and the first recipient. Also, revise the story of Raja Harishchandra. For official updates, also visit the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Next, for a related story, read about Dholi winning Best Garhwali Film.
So, are you preparing for the UKPSC Upper PCS 2026 prelims? Then join our UKPSC 2026 Prelims Test Series for regular practice.