Dada Saheb Phalke Award 2024 Announced for Kannada Veteran Anant Nag

The Dada Saheb Phalke Award for 2024 has been awarded to veteran Kannada actor Anant Nag. The honor, presented by President Droupadi Murmu at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, recognises Nag’s five‑decade contribution to Indian cinema, particularly his influential work in Kannada films.

The award was formally announced earlier this month after the Dada Saheb Phalke Award selection committee submitted its recommendations to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Nag’s extensive filmography, spanning classic and contemporary roles, has earned him critical acclaim and a lasting legacy.

The ceremony, which also marks the first time the National Film Awards are being held outside New Delhi, will feature a range of other accolades. "Article 370" secured Best Feature Film, "Bhangar" won Best Non‑Feature Film, and "Ram‑Nami" took the Best Documentary prize.

Acting awards include Best Actor in a Leading Role for Mamuti ("Brahmayugam") and Karthik Aryan ("Chandu Champion"), and Best Actress for Yami Gautam ("Article 370"). Ranadeep Hooda received Best Debut Film of a Director for "Swatantraya Veer Savarkar".

Additional recognitions were given to "Kalak 2898 AD" as Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment, Rajkumar Periasamy as Best Director for "Amaran", and "Captain Miller" as Best Feature Film Promoting National, Social and Environmental Values.

The event also highlights a historic moment: a Santali film will be honoured in the Non‑Feature Film category for the first time, reflecting the ministry’s drive to celebrate India’s linguistic and cultural diversity through cinema.