Who Is Anant Nag? Meet The Veteran Kannada Actor Set To Receive Dadasaheb Phalke Award

Anant Nag, one of the most respected names in Indian cinema, is set to receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2024. The Government of India announced the honour on September 16, recognising his contribution to Indian cinema and a career spanning more than five decades. The award will be presented at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony in Kevadia, Gujarat, on September 22, 2026.

Who Is Anant Nag?

Born on September 4, 1948, Anant Nag is a veteran actor best known for his extensive work in Kannada cinema. His career extends across Kannada, Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam, Tamil and Marathi films. According to the Government of India, he has acted in more than 300 films and is known for his versatility and natural performances.

Anant Nag To Receive Phalke Award
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Nag began his acting journey in theatre. At 18, he was selected for the lead role in a play about Saint Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. He went on to perform more than 50 different roles in plays over the next five years, before moving into films.

From Theatre To A Five-Decade Film Career

Anant Nag made his Kannada film debut with 'Sankalp' in 1973. That same year, he made his Hindi debut in Shyam Benegal's 'Ankur'. He subsequently became associated with both mainstream and parallel cinema, appearing in films including 'Manthan', 'Bhumika' and 'Kalyug'.

His work has extended beyond cinema as well. He was part of the popular television series 'Malgudi Days', based on the stories of R.K. Narayan. The series, directed by his brother Shankar Nag, introduced his work to another generation of viewers.

A Career Beyond Acting

Nag's contribution to the arts has earned him several major honours. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2025 for his contribution to the field of Art. His other honours include five Karnataka State Best Actor Awards and five Filmfare Awards.

He also entered public life and served as a Member of the Karnataka Legislative Council from 1988 to 1994 and a Member of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly from 1994 to 1999. During his political career, he served as Minister of State for Bangalore City Development.

A Major Honour For A Lasting Legacy

In 2023, Anant Nag completed 50 years in cinema. The Dadasaheb Phalke Award now adds another significant national honour to a career that has crossed languages, genres and generations.

The Government of India has selected him for the 2024 Dadasaheb Phalke Award in recognition of his contribution to Indian cinema. As he prepares to receive the honour on September 22, 2026, the award marks a significant milestone in the journey of an actor whose work has remained a part of Indian cinema for more than five decades.