Anant Nag to Receive Dadasaheb Phalke Award at 72nd National Film Awards
Veteran Kannada actor Anant Nag has been selected for the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2024, recognising his contribution to Indian cinema across a career spanning more than five decades. The award will be formally presented at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony on September 22, 2026, in Kevadia, Gujarat.
The Government of India announced the honour on September 16 following the recommendation of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award Selection Committee.
Five Decades of Cinema
Anant Nag began his film career in the 1970s and has worked extensively in Kannada cinema as well as Hindi and other Indian-language films.
His career has included more than 300 films, according to NDTV, alongside substantial work in theatre and television.
Among his notable Hindi-film appearances was Ankur, while his wider screen career has included a range of dramatic and character-driven roles. He is also remembered by television audiences for his association with Malgudi Days.
Government Announces the 2024 Award
The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting said the award recognises Nag's “outstanding and invaluable contribution” to the growth and development of Indian cinema and his five-decade-plus cinematic journey.
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2024 is being presented in 2026 as part of the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony. The ceremony is scheduled for September 22 at Kevadia, Gujarat.
Recognition for Kannada Cinema
Nag's selection also brings significant recognition to Kannada cinema.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the actor following the announcement, highlighting his long career, versatility and contribution particularly to Kannada cinema.
Nag had already received the Padma Bhushan in 2025, making the Dadasaheb Phalke Award another major national honour during the later part of his career.
Anant Nag’s Connection With Theatre
Before becoming an established film actor, Nag was involved in theatre and was influenced by prominent figures associated with Indian theatre, including Satyadev Dubey, Girish Karnad and Amol Palekar.
His early theatrical experience contributed to the naturalistic style that became a characteristic of many of his screen performances.
Award Ceremony on September 22
The award will be presented alongside the other honours at the 72nd National Film Awards in Gujarat.
It is important to distinguish between the announcement and the presentation: Anant Nag was selected for the Dadasaheb Phalke Award on September 16, while the formal presentation is scheduled for September 22, 2026.
The recognition places a career spanning Kannada, Hindi and other Indian-language cinema at the centre of this year's National Film Awards celebrations.
About TVR
TVR: The Voice Of Reform is an independent digital news platform covering major developments across India and around the world.
Editorial Note
Our articles are prepared using publicly available information and verified reporting. We aim to present news accurately, independently and responsibly. Information may be updated as new facts emerge.
© 2026 TVR: The Voice Of Reform. All Rights Reserved.
- Get link
- X
- Other Apps
Labels
Entertainment- Get link
- X
- Other Apps
Comments