Veteran actor Ananth Nag was honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony in Kevadia, Gujarat on 22 September.
The 78-year-old actor received the prestigious award for his contribution to Indian cinema.
After the ceremony, actor Rishabh Shetty congratulated Ananth Nag on the recognition. Sharing his thoughts on X, Rishabh recalled watching the veteran actor on television as a child and later getting the chance to direct him.
“Having grown up as a child sitting on the floor watching you on TV, it is a great honor for me to get an opportunity to direct you. To see my favorite actor of that time receive the film industry’s highest honor “Dadasaheb Phalke Award” from the honorable presidents, is a moment that fills every fan’s heart with joy.”
He added, “Heartiest congratulations to Padma Bhushan Shri Anant Nag Sir on receiving the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke award. Your natural performance, simplicity and love for cinema has inspired many generations of us. Truly happy and honored to receive this honour, Sir.”
I grew up sitting on the floor watching you on TV as a child, it’s an honor to have the opportunity to direct you. These are my favorite actors who have received the highest award in the field of cinema from the honorable President… pic.twitter.com/OJIvr09fcO
— Rishabh Shetty (@shetty_rishab) September 23, 2026
Rakshit Shetty also shared a message for the veteran actor. He wrote, “The grace with which he has undertaken this incredible journey has always been an inspiration. Ananth Nag sir, hearty congratulations on receiving the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. A much deserved honor for a legend of Kannada cinema.”
The grace with which she has completed this incredible journey has always been inspiring. Anant Nag Sir, Congratulations on receiving Dadasaheb Phalke Award. A great honor for the great personality of Kannada cinema ♥️ pic.twitter.com/NvZIK1vVeu
— Rakshit Shetty (@rakshitshetty) September 22, 2026
About the legacy of the infinite serpent
Ananth Nagarkate Born on September 4, 1948, Ananth Nag is one of the most respected names in Kannada cinema. During his career, he has acted in more than 300 films, including more than 250 Kannada films. His work has also spanned Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Marathi, Malayalam and English cinema.
Apart from his work in films, Anant Nag is also known for his television appearances. She appeared in the popular series of Doordarshan Malguri DayBased on the stories of famous writer RK Narayan.
The veteran actor has bagged five Karnataka State Film Awards during his illustrious career. In 2025, Anant Nag was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, by the Government of India.
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is considered India’s highest honor in cinema and is given to an individual for their outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema.
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