Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting Anurag Thakur announced on Tuesday that legendary actress Waheeda Rehman will be honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2021. The award is the highest civilian award in Indian cinema, and is given in recognition of outstanding contributions to the Indian film industry.
Rehman is one of the most celebrated actresses in Indian cinema, with a career spanning over five decades. She has starred in over 90 films, and has won numerous awards for her performances, including two Filmfare Awards, a National Film Award, and the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan honors.
Some of Rehman’s most memorable films include Pyaasa, Kaagaz ke Phool, Chaudhavi Ka Chand, Saheb Biwi Aur Ghulam, Guide, and Khamoshi.
Thakur, in his announcement, said that Rehman exemplifies dedication, commitment, and the strength of Indian women. He added that the award to her is a fitting tribute to one of the leading ladies of Indian cinema and one who has dedicated her life after films to philanthropy and the greater good of society.
I feel an immense sense of happiness and honour in announcing that Waheeda Rehman ji is being bestowed with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award this year for her stellar contribution to Indian Cinema.
Waheeda ji has been critically acclaimed for her…
— Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) September 26, 2023
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award will be presented to Rehman during the 69th National Film Awards ceremony.
A Fitting Tribute to a Legend
Rehman’s award is also a recognition of the important role that women have played in Indian cinema. She was one of the first actresses to break away from traditional roles, and to pave the way for other women to achieve success in the industry.
Rehman’s award is also a reminder of the power of cinema to bring people together from all walks of life. Her films have entertained and inspired audiences for generations, and they continue to be relevant today.
Waheeda Rehman’s Contribution to Indian Cinema
Waheeda Rehman was born in 1938 in Chengalpattu, Madras Presidency, British India. She began her film career in the early 1950s, and quickly rose to prominence with her roles in films such as C.I.D. (1956) and Pyaasa (1957).
Rehman’s performances have been praised for their naturalism, sensitivity, and emotional depth. She has often been credited with bringing a new level of realism and sophistication to Indian cinema.