New Delhi: The Dadasaheb Phalke Award was announced by the government of India on Wednesday (September 16). Veteran actor Anant Nag has been named the recipient
of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for 2026, one of the highest honours in Indian cinema. The award recognises his contribution to Indian cinema and his long-standing journey as an actor.
The announcement was made following the recommendation of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award Selection Committee. Anant Nag will formally receive the honour at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony, which is scheduled to take place on September 22, 2026, in Ekta Nagar, Kevadia, Gujarat.
Anant Nag honoured with Dadasaheb Phalke Award
The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is presented annually at the National Film Awards to recognise an individual’s outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema. The award includes a Swarna Kamal, a shawl and a cash prize.
The ceremony will be held at Ekta Nagar, Kevadia, Gujarat, rather than the traditional venue in Delhi. The President of India is scheduled to present the 72nd National Film Awards, which honour achievements in Indian cinema for the year 2024.
The 72nd National Film Awards were announced in July 2026, with Article 370 winning Best Feature Film, while Mammootty and Kartik Aaryan shared the Best Actor award and Yami Gautam won Best Actress for Article 370.
A new chapter in the National Film Awards
The 2026 ceremony will also be notable for taking the National Film Awards outside Delhi. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has said that future editions will be held across different states and cities as part of an effort to take the national awards beyond the capital.
