New Delhi/IBNS: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said he was "delighted" that veteran Indian actor Mithun Chakraborty was conferred Dadasaheb Phalke Award for the year 2022.

Dadasaheb Phalke Award is the highest award conferred in India in the field of cinema.

Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Union Information and Broadcasting Minister, announced on X, "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."

In his response, the Prime Minister wrote on X, " Delighted that Shri Mithun Chakraborty Ji has been conferred the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, recognizing his unparalleled contributions to Indian cinema. He is a cultural icon, admired across generations for his versatile performances. Congratulations and best wishes to him."

Chakraborty will be honoured at the 70th National Film Awards ceremony on October 8.

The veteran actor, who has three National Awards under his belt, was conferred India's third-highest civilian honour Padma Bhushan in January 2024.

Chakraborty made his debut with maestro Mrinal Sen's Mrigayaa in 1976. His portrayal of a Santhal rebel in Mrinal Sen's film earned him the national accolade.

Chakraborty gained significant popularity in the 1980s with his role in Disco Dancer (1982), a film that became a major success both in India and internationally, establishing him as a dancing sensation.

He became a household name with his iconic role in Disco Dancer, a film that not only showcased his exceptional dancing skills but also popularized disco music in Indian cinema.

His performance in Agneepath also won him the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1990.

Later, he won two more National Film Awards for his roles in Tahader Katha (1992) and Swami Vivekananda (1998).

Over his extensive career, Chakraborty has acted in more than 350 films across various Indian languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Odia, Bhojpuri, and Telugu.

He is known for his diverse performances, ranging from action to drama and comedy, and has won several awards, including three National Film Awards for Best Actor.