Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty would be getting India's highest film awards, Dadasaheb Phalke Award on 8th October, 2024, in the National Film Awards ceremony. One of the most versatile actors who is known for his marvelous dancing skills, Mithun has undertaken the most fantastic journey across five decades with Indian cinema. A few months ago, the actor was conferred with the Padma Bhushan, adding yet another feather to his cap
From Simplicity to Stardom
Mithun Chakraborty, born Gourango Chakraborty, had a modest beginning. While he graduated in Chemistry from Scottish Church College, he stepped into cinema as an actor. But that was after attending the prestigious FTII, the Film and Television Institute of India in Pune. Mithun first appeared in 1976 with Mrinal Sen's film, Mrigayaa. His portrayal of the tribal man fetched him his first National Award for Best Actor, before many others. Here he went on to act in more than 350 films across Hindi, Bengali, Odia, and Telugu.
The Rise of a Dancing Sensation
Mithun's career defining moment came with Disco Dancer in 1982. The film created a cultural frenzy where the name Mithun, suddenly spread like fire, not only in India but worldwide, symbolizing the rise of disco music and dance through him. His dancing acumen coupled with pop colours of disco emerged into a phenomenon that remains unmatched even now. Mithun with Disco Dancer became the iconic face of a sort of Bollywood superstar, and for years to come, it would be found depicted with energetic performances coupled with extraordinary dance. Mithun stayed one of the most busy actors in Bollywood for the next ten years. He not only acted in 19 films between 1989 and 1988 but also made an entry into the record book as he had the maximum number of releases in a single year.
Struggle and Dark Days
Mithun's success didn't come without a price. In numerous interviews, the actor has reflected on the colorism he suffered during his early days as an actor. He also recalls that he had slept on the streets of Mumbai and hadn't been able to get any work. Mithun, on one of the candid interviews, has said, "I have even seen days when I slept with an empty stomach and wondered where my next meal would come from." But it was his perseverance that took him beyond such hardships. "I didn't know how to lose," he said and encouraged everybody not to give up at all.
Mithun Da’s remarkable cinematic journey inspires generations!
Honoured to announce that the Dadasaheb Phalke Selection Jury has decided to award legendary actor, Sh. Mithun Chakraborty Ji for his iconic contribution to Indian Cinema.
🗓️To be presented at the 70th National…— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) September 30, 2024
A Legacy of Inspiration
With over 350 films and considered with three National Film Awards, Mithun Chakraborty has left an indelible footmark in the annals of Indian cinema. Inspiring generations from his struggles on the streets of Mumbai to becoming the icon he is in contemporary Bollywood, it's definitely something to behold. It is a befitting tribute to his extraordinary contribution to Indian Cinema. Mithun reacted to the news with all emotion stating, "I have no words to say. All these brings back memories of earlier days when fighting for every little thing. Yet, I've had a lot to fight for; sometimes I had to fight for nothing at all." Here again, Mithun thanks his family and fans for their loyalty. The story of Mithun Chakraborty is one never-give-up attitude and great perseverance. He had to face many hardships but with a strong heart worked his way up to become one of Bollywood's most-celebrated stars. A story of him going to the streets and sleeping and receiving India's topmost film honor is a perfect testimony to all his hard work and talent and perseverance. He will inspire all the aspiring actors for generations to come.
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