Ahead Of His Dadasaheb Phalke Award, A Look At Mithun Chakraborty’s Iconic Journey

By Tannu Keshri | September 30, 2024

Veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty is set to be honored with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award at the 70th National Film Awards on October 8, 2024, recognizing his immense contribution to Indian cinema. Let's take a look at his journey.

Mithun Chakraborty to Receive Dadasaheb Phalke Award

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Born on June 16, 1950, in Kolkata, Mithun Chakraborty, originally named Gouranga Chakraborty, studied chemistry before graduating from the Film and Television Institute of India. His journey began after leaving the Naxalite movement following a personal tragedy.

Early Life and Education

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Mithun made his acting debut in 1976 with Mrinal Sen’s Mrigayaa, for which he won the National Film Award for Best Actor, a sign of the illustrious career ahead.

Bollywood Debut with a National Award

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In 1982, Disco Dancer shot him to international fame. The film was a massive hit in India, Soviet Union, and China, cementing his place as a Bollywood icon.

Rise to Stardom with Disco Dancer

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Known as one of Bollywood’s best “dancing heroes,” Mithun popularized the fusion of disco and desi dance styles, gaining widespread appeal for his high-energy performances.

Bollywood’s Dance Sensation

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Mithun dominated the 80s and early 90s with hits like Pyar Jhukta Nahin, Ghulami, Swarag Se Sunder, and Agneepath, earning acclaim for both lead and supporting roles.

A String of Box Office Hits

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Over his career, Mithun has won three National Film Awards and two Filmfare Awards. In 2024, he was also awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honor.

Awards and Accolades

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Besides Hindi films, Mithun also made a mark in Bengali cinema with hits like Troyee, Tahader Katha, and Projapoti, showing his versatility as an actor.

A Trailblazer in Bengali Cinema

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Mithun has contributed to the welfare of film industry workers by establishing Cine & T.V Artistes Association (CINTAA) and serving as Chairperson of the Film Studios Mazdoor Union.

Social Impact and Philanthropy

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He ventured into politics, serving as a Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament from 2014 to 2016 and later joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2021.

Political Journey

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Mithun’s role in The Kashmir Files (2022) and the Bengali hit Projapoti reaffirmed his acting prowess, with both films achieving blockbuster success.

Recent Successes and Comeback

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As a beloved figure in Indian cinema, Mithun Chakraborty’s career spans over four decades, with his versatility, dance skills, and commitment to social causes cementing his legacy ahead of receiving the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

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