Legendary actor Mithun Chakraborty on Monday dedicated his Dadasaheb Phalke award to his fans and supporters as he recalled his struggle during his initial days in the film industry.
Chakraborty, who is shooting in Kolkata for his latest film, has injured his hand but that has not stopped him from giving his best to his craft. Speaking to News18, the actor-turned-politician expressed his happiness at being conferred with the honour and reminisced how he had come a long way from the days when he asked a journalist for food as he had no money.
Edited excerpts:
How are you feeling?
I have no words to thank everybody. I feel like neither can I laugh, nor can I cry. I still remember how once I slept on Mumbai’s footpaths. I had to fight for everything. Today, as I am being given this honour, I still can’t believe it.
Whom do you dedicate this award to?
I dedicate it to all my fans and to people who watched my films. I would also like to dedicate this to my family who relentlessly stood by me.
How do you see your journey?
I started from the roads, spending countless nights under the night sky. Initially, I worked in C-grade films and then moved to B-grade. When I got my first National Award, a journalist approached me for an interview. I told him I was hungry as I didn’t have money to buy food and he was kind enough to get me something to eat. Today, I get food four times. I have seen many ups and downs in my life but passion for the craft and struggle are my weapons.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also congratulated you.
I love the prime minister, he is a wonderful person. I have met him several times. If he has wished me, I send my ‘pranam’ to him.
All politicians have wished you. Kunal Ghosh said you should remember Pranab Mukherjee and Mamata Banerjee as the former had once written recommending you for the Padma Shri while the latter made you an MP.
Yes, I remember. It was my choice to leave the Trinamool Congress. BJP has also offered me several chances to contest polls but I have always refused. I never mix acting with politics.
Some people are trying to link your win to your affiliation with the BJP. What is your reaction?
I will not say anything. I have never taken favours from anybody and won’t do so in the future too.
At present, everyone in Bengal is talking about the RG Kar rape and murder case. What’s your take?
Justice must be done. It’s such a heinous crime.
What’s your message for newcomers?
Fight till your goal is achieved. If I can do it, anybody can do it if they are passionate.
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