The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting announced that veteran actor Anant Nag will receive the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024 in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema. The award will be presented at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony scheduled for September 22, 2026, in Kevadia, Gujarat.
Anant Nag, born September 4, 1948 in Karnataka, has had an illustrious cinematic journey spanning over five decades since his debut in the Kannada film Sankalp. He has appeared in over 300 films across multiple languages including Kannada, Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam, Tamil, and Marathi, with notable works such as Malgudi Days. His achievements include five Filmfare Awards, five Karnataka State Best Actor Awards, Karnataka Rajyotsava Award, Karnataka Sahitya Academy Award, Karnataka State Lifetime Achievement Award, and an Honorary Doctorate from Bangalore University (North). He previously received the Padma Bhushan from the Government of India in 2025.
Beyond his cinematic career, Nag served in political roles including Member of the Karnataka Legislative Council (1988-1994), Member of the Legislative Assembly (1994-1999), and Minister of State for Bangalore City Development during his legislative tenure.
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award, instituted in 1969 and first presented to Devika Rani, represents the highest honor in Indian cinema, recognizing outstanding contribution to the growth and development of the industry. The award commemorates Dadasaheb Phalke, who directed India's first full-length feature film Raja Harishchandra in 1913. The award comprises a Swarna Kamal (Golden Lotus) medallion, a shawl, and a cash prize of ₹10 lakh.