Man from literally nowhere, ‘a nobody’ made it: Mithun on Phalke honour

Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty, who has essayed iconic roles like the one in 'Disco Dancer' and who has been named as the recipient of the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, says he "never imagined that a boy from the footpath could receive such a big honuor".

The three-time National Award winning actor, who has inspired generations with his journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of Bollywood's most celebrated stars, dedicated the award to those who have supported him along the way.

"I can only say that I dedicate this award to my family and all my fans around the world. Where I come from, from a blind alley in Kolkata, I never imagined that a boy from the footpath could receive such a big honour," the actor-turned politician said in an exclusive interview.

"I'm literally dumbfounded, trust me. I can't smile, I can't cry with happiness because a man from literally nowhere, a nobody, made it. This also proves what I always tell my fans and those who aren't financially strong: if I can make it, then you can do it too," he told ANI.

The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is highest government honour accorded for contribution in the field of cinema.