Vice President Venkaiah Naidu presented Superstar Rajinikanth with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest cinema honour, in the capital today, to a standing ovation from the crowd.
A Swarna Kamal (Golden Lotus) medallion, a shawl, and a monetary reward were presented to the renowned actor.
Rajinikanth was born Shivaji Rao Gaekwad to Ramoji Rao and Jijabai on December 12, 1950, and worked as a bus driver before starting his cinema career about 45 years ago.
While accepting the award, Rajinikanth took a trip down memory lane to thank an old acquaintance who recognized his acting potential and urged him to pursue a career in movies.
“I am overjoyed to have received this distinguished prize. Thank you very much to the national government for bestowing the Dadasaheb Phalke award on me. I’d like to dedicate this honour to K Balachander, my mentor. Today, I think of him with thankfulness. I’d also want to thank a buddy who saw my skill and encouraged me to pursue acting when I was working as a bus conductor “He recalled something.
Rajinikanth also thanked all of the producers, directors, members of the film business, and fans for their support.
“Thank you to everyone for their support… the press, the media, the directors, the distributors, the producers, and the fans… my greatest gratitude goes out to you all. Also, a particular thanks to Tamils… without them, I would be nothing “He expressed his gratitude for the help he received.
Rajinikanth, his wife Latha, daughter Aishwarya, and son-in-law Dhanush were all present at the award event.