70th National Film Awards: Mithun Chakraborty honoured with Dadasaheb Phalke Award, recalls his journey: “I was told ‘film industry meing kaala rang nahin chalega’”

The prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award was given to veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty on Tuesday in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the film industry. During the 70th National Film Awards ceremony that took place at Vigyan Bhawan, President Droupadi Murmu presented him with this prestigious award, which is regarded as the highest honor in Indian cinema.

The 70th Annual National Film Awards: The journey Mithun Chakraborty, who received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, recalls: "Film industry meing kaala rang nahin chalega" was what I was told." 70th National Film Awards: The journey Mithun Chakraborty, who received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, recalls: "Film industry meing kaala rang nahin chalega," someone told me. 

Mithun Chakraborty offered a sincere reflection on his journey throughout the entertainment industry. The veteran actor, who was also honored with the Padma Bhushan for his significant contributions to the arts, discussed the difficulties he encountered, particularly the prejudice he faced as a person of darker skin. He stated, referring to those trying times, "I was told "film industry meing kaala rang nahin chalega." Jitna apmaan ho sakta tha, hua [I was informed that dark-skinned actors like me do not have a place in the film industry] He stated, "They humiliated me as much as they could."

Mithun found strength in his love of dance, which eventually became his means of self-expression, despite the negative circumstances. "I decided to dance then," he reflected. Instead of focusing on my face or skin tone, I wanted people to focus on my feet. Filmon me pairon se dance kiya, and log mere rang ko bhool gaye."

He shared his belief that determination can lead to success, and he encouraged those in the industry who aspire to be successful." He stated, "Anyone can do it if I can do it."

Chakraborty thought about his previous accomplishments and how they had influenced his outlook. He drew comparisons to the legendary actor Al Pacino and acknowledged that his success had brought about a certain arrogance in him. He quickly realized, however, that this attitude could limit his opportunities. His desire to remain humble and grounded in his work was fueled by this realization.

In a moment of inspiration, he ended his speech by repeating a mantra that he frequently uses: Khud, so jana lekin, sapno ko mat sone dena."

The President was in attendance at the significant 70th National Film Awards ceremony, which honored excellence in Indian film from the previous year. The Dadasaheb Phalke Award was established in 1969 to honor the pioneering filmmaker Dadasaheb Phalke. Over the course of its history, it has been presented to a number of notable individuals, including Raj Kapoor, Lata Mangeshkar, and Yash Chopra. Chakraborty is the 54th person to receive this award, following actress Waheeda Rehman in 2021.

Mithun's award of the Padma Bhushan earlier this year further established his status as a revered figure in Indian cinema.