Hindi-Bengali actor Mithun Chakraborty has been honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke award by the Centre. The iconic actor has received copius praises from Nandamuri Balakrishna, his long-time friend and film industry colleague.
Balakrishna recalled that it was with the 1976 movie 'Mrigayaa' with which Mithun made his acting debut. "He won his first National Award for Best Actor for that movie. While he began his career with art house films, Mithun later carved out a special place for himself in Bollywood’s commercial cinema. His role in 'Disco Dancer' (1982) earned him immense popularity and solidified his unique standing in the industry," the 'Veera Simha Reddy' actor said.
"I have had the privilege of working with Mithun Chakraborty. My film 'Disco King' (1984; a remake of 'Disco Dancer') was particularly memorable. It was my first time stepping in front of the camera as a solo hero in a project for an external production company. My heartfelt congratulations to Mithun Chakraborty on receiving the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his exceptional contribution to the Indian film industry. I look forward to seeing him continue to excel in many more unique roles as an actor," the 'Bhagavanth Kesari' star added.