India Confirms Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2024 for Veteran Kannada Actor Anant Nag

Government announces the Phalke honour for Anant Nag

India's Ministry of Information and Broadcasting confirmed on September 16 that veteran Kannada actor Anant Nag will receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024, the country's highest recognition in cinema. The Press Information Bureau said the award is being conferred on the recommendation of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award Selection Committee, recognizing his "outstanding and invaluable contribution to the growth and development of Indian Cinema" and an illustrious cinematic journey spanning over five decades. The award will be presented on September 22, 2026, at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony in Kevadia, Gujarat.

Career and body of work cited by officials

Born Anant Nagarkatte on September 4, 1948, in Karnataka's Uttara Kannada district, Nag has appeared in more than 300 films, including over 250 in Kannada, with additional credits across Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Marathi, Malayalam and English cinema. Films highlighted in the government's announcement include "Minchina Ota", "Hamsageethe", "Ankur" and "Manthan", while his role in the Doordarshan series "Malgudi Days" extended his reach to television audiences. He has also been a member of the Karnataka Legislative Council and a state minister, and received the Padma Bhushan in 2025.

Prime Minister Modi's response

Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X congratulating the actor, writing, "Congratulations to the legendary Anant Nag Ji on being conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. For several decades, his effortless performances, remarkable versatility and brilliance have left a very strong mark on Indian cinema, particularly Kannada cinema. In whichever role he has played, he brought rare depth and authenticity. This is indeed a richly deserved honour for a truly distinguished artist."

The Dadasaheb Phalke Award

Presented annually as part of the National Film Awards, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award is named after Dhundiraj Govind Phalke, considered the father of Indian cinema, and is regarded as the highest honour in Indian film. The 2024 edition will be given at the 72nd National Film Awards function at Ekta Nagar, Kevadia, Gujarat, on September 22, 2026, with the ceremony also marking the broader awards for films from the relevant cycle.