MUMBAI: In a significant recognition of her outstanding contributions to Indian cinema, veteran actress Waheeda Rehman is set to receive the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award. This distinguished accolade serves as a testament to her remarkable career, which began in 1955 with her debut in the Telugu film "Rojulu Marayi" and continued to flourish over nearly five decades.
Renowned for her collaboration with the legendary filmmaker Guru Dutt, Waheeda Rehman left an indelible mark on the Bollywood film industry. Their partnership gave rise to timeless classics such as "Pyaasa" and "Kaagaz Ke Phool," solidifying her status as an iconic figure in Indian cinema. Her on-screen brilliance and captivating presence have earned her the adoration of countless fans and continue to inspire aspiring actors to this day.
On September 26, the Information and Broadcasting Minister, Anurag Thakur, took to social media to commend Waheeda Rehman's invaluable contributions to the world of Indian cinema. In a heartfelt message, he expressed, "I feel an immense sense of happiness and honor 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." He went on to highlight her critically acclaimed roles in iconic Hindi films like "Pyaasa," "Kaagaz Ke Phool," "Chaudhavi Ka Chand," "Saheb Biwi Aur Ghulam," "Guide," "Khamoshi," and many others.
Waheeda Rehman's career spanned over five decades, during which she portrayed her roles with unparalleled finesse. Her outstanding performance as a clanswoman in the film "Reshma and Shera" earned her a National Film Award. She has also been honored with the Padma Shri by the Government of India in 1972 and later received the Padma Bhushan in 2011, further solidifying her legacy as a true icon of Indian cinema.
Anurag Thakur's message also acknowledged Waheeda Rehman's dedication to philanthropy and her commitment to the greater good of society. He noted, "At a time when the historic Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam has been passed by Parliament, her being awarded with this lifetime achievement award is a fitting tribute to one of the leading ladies of Indian Cinema." He concluded by congratulating her and paying his humble regards to her rich body of work, which has become an intrinsic part of Indian film history.
Waheeda Rehman's upcoming honor with the Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award stands as a momentous recognition of her unparalleled contributions to Indian cinema. Her cinematic journey, from her debut in the 1950s to her enduring legacy, serves as an inspiration to actors and film enthusiasts alike, reaffirming her status as a beloved and revered figure in the Bollywood film industry.
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