Veteran actor Anant Nag was honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony in Kevadia, Gujarat, on September 22.
The 78-year-old actor received the prestigious honour for his contribution to Indian cinema.
Following the ceremony, actor Rishab Shetty congratulated Anant Nag on the recognition. Sharing his thoughts on X, Rishab recalled watching the veteran actor on television as a child and later getting the opportunity to direct him.
“Growing up watching you on TV while sitting on the floor as a child, for me, getting the opportunity to direct you is a great honor. Seeing my favorite artist of that time receiving the “Dadasaheb Phalke Award,” the highest honor in the film industry from esteemed Presidents, is a moment that fills every fan’s heart with joy.”
He added, “Hearty Congratulations to Padma Bhushan Sri Anant Nag Sir on receiving the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award. Your natural performances, simplicity and love for cinema have inspired generations, including many of us. Truly happy and proud to see you receive this honour, Sir.”
ಚಿಕ್ಕವಯಸ್ಸಿನಲ್ಲಿ ನೆಲದ ಮೇಲೆ ಕುಳಿತು TV ಯಲ್ಲಿ ನಿಮ್ಮನ್ನು ನೋಡಿಕೊಂಡು ಬೆಳೆದ ನನಗೆ , ನಿಮ್ಮನ್ನು ನಿರ್ದೇಶನ ಮಾಡುವ ಅವಕಾಶ ಸಿಕ್ಕಿದ್ದು ನನ್ನ ಪಾಲಿಗೆ ದೊಡ್ಡ ಗೌರವ. ಅಂತಹ ನನ್ನ ನೆಚ್ಚಿನ ಕಲಾವಿದರು ಗೌರವಾನ್ವಿತ ರಾಷ್ಟ್ರಪತಿಗಳಿಂದ ಸಿನಿಮಾ ರಂಗದ ಅತ್ಯುನ್ನತ ಪ್ರಶಸ್ತಿಯಾದ ” ದಾದಾಸಾಹೇಬ್ ಫಾಲ್ಕೆ ಪ್ರಶಸ್ತಿಯನ್ನು ಸ್ವೀಕರಿಸಿದ್ದು “… pic.twitter.com/OJIvr09fcO
— Rishab Shetty (@shetty_rishab) September 23, 2026
Rakshit Shetty also shared a message for the veteran actor. He wrote, “The grace with which he has carried this incredible journey has always been an inspiration. Heartfelt congratulations, Anant Nag sir, on receiving the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. A richly deserved honour to the legend of Kannada cinema.”
The grace with which he has carried this incredible journey has always been an inspiration. Heartfelt congratulations, Anant Nag sir, on receiving the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. A richly deserved honour to the legend of Kannada cinema ♥️ pic.twitter.com/NvZIK1vVeu
— Rakshit Shetty (@rakshitshetty) September 22, 2026
About Anant Nag’s Legacy
Born Anant Nagarkatte on September 4, 1948, Anant Nag is one of the most respected names in Kannada cinema. Over the course of his career, he has acted in more than 300 films, including over 250 Kannada films. His body of work also spans Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Marathi, Malayalam and English cinema.
Apart from his work in films, Anant Nag is also known for his television appearances. He featured in the popular Doordarshan series Malgudi Days, based on the stories of celebrated author R.K. Narayan.
The veteran actor has received five Karnataka State Film Awards during his illustrious career. In 2025, Anant Nag was conferred with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, by the Government of India.
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is regarded as India’s highest honour in cinema and is presented to an individual for their outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema.
ALSO READ | Military Rejection To KGF: Anant Nag’s Journey Through Malgudi Days, Politics And More
