Thaindian News

Mumbai, April 30 (IANS) Bollywood’s evergreen actor Dev Anand was Friday conferred the Phalke Ratna award here while iconic villain Pran was honoured with the Phalke Icon and Legendary Cine Versatile Cine Star award. The honours were given away on the 141st birth anniversary of Dadasaheb Phalke, considered the father of Indian movies.
“Whenever I close my eyes and try to recollect, I see all the legends of Bollywood those who have contributed immensely to Indian cinema. I salute them for all their efforts,” Dev Anand, known for giving hits like “Guide”, “Jewel Thief” and “Hare Rama Hare Krishna”, told reporters after receiving the honour.

Pran, who came in a wheelchair, too poured his heart out. “I feel extremely honoured to receive this highly esteemed award. I thank the industry for showering their love and support,” said Pran who is still remembered for his roles in “Madhumati” and “Ram Aur Shyam”.

Hindi cinema’s highest grosser “3 Idiots”, too, won two awards.

Producer Vidhu Vinod Chopra was awarded the Phalke Memorial Commercial Film 2009 award for “3 Idiots”, while superstar Aamir Khan was conferred with the Phalke Memorial Performance award for the same. But neither of them were present to collect the honour.

Held at the Bhaidas Hall in Vile Parle here, the awards were handed over by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Chhagan Bhujbal. As many as 59 awards were given to actors, technicians and other film industry members by the Dadasaheb Phalke Academy.

Nightingale of India Lata Mangeshkar was given the Phalke Golden Era Singer award; veteran actor Chandrashekar was honoured with the Phalke Golden Era award and comedian Jagdeep received the Phalke Legendary actor award for his contribution to comedy as an actor.

Veteran actor-filmmaker Manoj Kumar was also present at the event.