Veteran Kannada actor Anant Nag, who has been selected for the 2024 Dadasaheb Phalke Award, has spoken about changes in the way national awards are selected. The veteran actor said that nepotism and favouritism had influenced award selections in the past, while crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi with changing the system by encouraging greater public participation.
Anant Nag Credits PM Modi for Changes in Award Selection
Speaking to PTI after being selected for the prestigious honour, Anant Nag said that awards were previously associated with what he described as a system of favouritism and special categories. According to the actor, the process changed after Modi encouraged public participation in nominations for national honours.
Nag specifically referred to the public nomination process for the Padma Awards, saying that people from Karnataka had recommended his name. His comments came after the announcement of his selection for the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest cinematic honour.
The actor dedicated the honour to the people of Karnataka and expressed gratitude for the recognition after a career spanning more than five decades.
Anant Nag to Receive Dadasaheb Phalke Award
The Government of India announced Anant Nag as the recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2024 on September 16, 2026. The selection was made on the recommendation of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award Selection Committee.
The award will be presented at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony on September 22, 2026, in Kevadia, Gujarat, according to the Press Information Bureau.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also congratulated Anant Nag, praising his effortless performances, versatility and contribution to Indian cinema, particularly Kannada cinema.
A Five-Decade Career in Indian Cinema
Anant Nag has built a distinguished career across Kannada, Hindi and other Indian-language films. He became particularly recognised for his work in parallel cinema during the 1970s and later appeared in mainstream films and television.
His memorable work includes films such as Ankur, Nishant and Bhumika, while his role in the television series Malgudi Days introduced his performances to an even wider audience. He has appeared in more than 300 films during his career.
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award adds another major national honour to Nag’s career. His recognition also marks an important moment for Kannada cinema, with Nag becoming the second Kannada artist after Dr Rajkumar to receive the prestigious award.
