Manoj ‘Bharat’ Kumar to be Awarded Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2015

Veteran Bollywood actor Manoj Kumar will be awarded highest honour in Indian cinema Dada Saheb Phalke Award

Manoj Kumar. (Photo: PTI)

Manoj Kumar, known for featuring in films with patriotic themes, will be conferred the 47th Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the country’s highest cinema award for the year 2015, the information and broadcasting (I&B) ministry announced on Friday.

The film fraternity congratulated the veteran film actor and director, who called the honour a “pleasant surprise”.

It’s a pleasant surprise. I was sleeping, and I started getting calls from my friends. I thought they were kidding, but when I read the news myself, I realised that it’s for real

<b>Manoj Kumar, Veteran Actor</b>

The coveted award introduced to commemorate the contribution of ‘Father of Indian Cinema’ Dadasaheb Phalke to showbiz is conferred by the government of India for outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema. The award consists of a Swarn Kamal (Golden Lotus), a cash prize of Rs.10 lakh and a shawl.

It is certainly one of the most prestigious awards we have. I am extremely satisfied with whatever I have achieved in my life, and my family is extremely happy with this news

Manoj Kumar’s career began in 1957 and his last big screen appearance was in the 1995 film Maidan-E-Jung. He says he will try to be more active in the film industry now.

Congratulations poured in from industry members.

Manoj Kumar is remembered for his films Hariyali Aur Raasta, Woh Kaun Thi, Himalaya Ki God Mein, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, and Kranti, and his body of work was recognised by the Indian government with a Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award, in 1992.