Bengali film superstar Prosenjit Chatterjee on Sunday said he would dedicate his Padma Shri award to his late mother, who he credited for his success in a career spanning over four decades.
Chatterjee told PTI that he learned about the honour while watching his recently released Bengali film at Navina Cinema. He shared the news with the audience, who cheered in response.
"I dedicate this honour to my mother, who sacrificed so much to raise us and guide my journey. I also share it with my family, including my son Mishuk. My achievements were possible because of my audiences," he said.
He added that he called his father, legendary actor Biswajit Chatterjee, who expressed pride in him. Chatterjee also remembered his late friend, director Rituparno Ghosh, for shaping his career in critically acclaimed, realistic cinema.
Asked if the award was long overdue, he said, "I do not look at it that way. What matters is that the government has recognised my work. I am thankful to the Union Ministry."
Meanwhile, other Padma Shri recipients, including tabla maestro Pt Kumar Bose, dedicated their awards to their families and highlighted contributions of West Bengal’s classical artists.
With inputs from NDTV