Vidushi Nautiyal, Pune
The Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Anurag Thakur declared on Tuesday that veteran actor Waheeda Rehman will receive this year’s Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest accolade in the world of Indian cinema.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Union Minister Anurag Thakur expressed his elation, saying, “I feel an immense sense of happiness and honour in announcing that Waheeda Rehman ji is being bestowed with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award this year for her stellar contribution to Indian Cinema.”
https://x.com/ianuragthakur/status/1706565710540083673?s=20
Thakur also referred to Parliament’s passing of the Women’s Reservation Bill and remarked that her being awarded the Lifetime Achievement award at this time is a fitting tribute to one of India’s leading ladies and one who has devoted her post-film life to philanthropy and the betterment of society.
“I am happy,” Waheeda Rehman told ANI after receiving the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. She stated that she was pleased and considered it an important award from the government. She emphasized that receiving something with love and respect brings even greater joy and also extended her gratitude to the Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur and the other members of the jury for selecting her.
Waheeda dedicated the award to all her colleagues, everyone in her department and the film industry. She acknowledged that filmmaking is a collaborative effort, where even the most accomplished director relies on their cast and crew to convey their vision. She also expressed her deep gratitude to the industry, attributing her success and who she is today to their affection.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to X (formerly Twitter) to extend his warm congratulations to Waheeda Rehman for receiving the esteemed Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award. He praised her for leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema and being a symbol of talent, dedication, and grace, embodying the finest aspects of Indian cinematic heritage.
https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1706641424668836143?s=20
Waheeda Rehman, a recipient of both the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan awards, is widely regarded as one of India’s most distinguished actors, celebrated for her remarkable performances in cinematic classics such as “Pyaasa,” “CID,” “Guide,” “Kaagaz Ke Phool,” “Khamoshi,” and “Trishul.” Beyond her illustrious acting career, Rehman is also known for her philanthropic endeavors, particularly her advocacy for education and her role as an ambassador for Rang De, an organization dedicated to eradicating poverty in India.