Mithun Chakraborty reflects on Dadasaheb Phalke honour: Recognition is important

Veteran Bollywood actor Mithun Chakraborty, who was recently honoured with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, will receive his award from President Droupadi Murmu today, October 8. The 74-year-old actor will be attending the 70th National Film Awards at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi.
Before accepting the award, Mithun exclusively spoke to India Today Digital and reflected upon his journey through the film industry, sharing insights on awards, evolving cinema, and the secrets to staying relevant over four decades.
Having received his first National Award for his debut film Mrigayaa, the actor acknowledged the significance of recognition in today’s context.
“Yes, it feels important to get this recognition,” Mithun stated. He reminisced about a time when the National Award was often undervalued. “Before, people used to think that a National Award was like any other award. Whenever you received it, nobody gave it much importance. The audience’s reaction was paramount; they looked for whether a film had run for a silver jubilee or a golden jubilee, or even a minimum of 10 weeks in theatres. That was the criterion at that time,” he said.
Known for his famous philosophy of doing three kinds of films—one for money, one for himself, and one for his fans—the actor spoke about how his approach has changed with changing times.
“In my early years, money was a constant need for me; I had a huge family to look after, so it was definitely a huge criterion,” he explained. “But now, times have changed. I don’t think about such things anymore. I focus on doing a film that satisfies my creative side more than anything else.”
With re-releases becoming a norm in the industry, Mithun, popular as ‘Disco Dancer,’ expressed his desire to see many of his films back on the big screen.
“I would love to have many of my films re-released where I feel I have done an extraordinary job and where people must watch them, especially in Bengali cinema, as well as Hindi. Right now, I cannot think of any one film, but if the time comes, I would love for this to happen,” Mithun expressed.
As he reflected on his longevity in the industry, Mithun offered insights into the importance of adaptation. “Being relevant means changing with the times because if you don’t, you will be left behind,” he said. He acknowledged the necessity of evolving with one’s age and appearance in choosing roles. “If I feel now I can do Disco Dancer, it would be a foolish move. According to my age and look, I choose my films, and I can do justice that way.”
Mithun Chakraborty concluded the conversation by thanking his fans. “Thank you for all the good wishes,” he said.
In his career spanning over four decades, Mithun has delivered some of the finest performances in films like Disco Dancer, Dance Dance, Pyar Jhukta Nahin, Kasam Paida Karne Wale Ki, and Commando, among others.