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On Sunday, the Ministry of Home Affairs unveiled the list of recipients of the Padma Awards, which represent some of the most prestigious civilian accolades
in the nation. President Droupadi Murmu sanctioned a total of 131 honors, comprising five Padma Vibhushan, 13 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri. Renowned actor Prosenjit Chatterjee is among those selected to receive the Padma Shri. In a recent interview, the actor, who boasts a remarkable four-decade career, dedicated the accolade to his late mother, acknowledging her numerous sacrifices throughout her life.
Prosenjit Chatterjee dedicates Padma Shri win to late mother
In a conversation with PTI, the 63-year-old actor reminisced about watching his newly released Bengali film at Navina cinema when he learned the news. He shared this moment with the audience, who erupted in enthusiastic applause.
“I would like to first dedicate this recognition to my mother, who made immense sacrifices to nurture us and has guided me throughout a journey that has lasted over four decades. I also share this honor with my family, particularly my son Mishuk. Ultimately, all my accomplishments are due to my countless supporters,” Chatterjee expressed.
The actor mentioned that he immediately contacted his father, the legendary actor Biswajit Chatterjee, upon receiving the news. “He said to me, ‘So you have received it. I am incredibly proud of you,’” Prosenjit recalled.
Prosenjit Chatterjee misses 'friend' Rituparno Ghosh
Chatterjee also reflected on the absence of his dear friend and acclaimed filmmaker Rituparno Ghosh, who passed away several years ago. He expressed that he deeply misses Rituparno on this significant occasion. The director played a vital role in his development as an actor, particularly in the realm of critically acclaimed, realistic arthouse cinema, and he acknowledged the director’s impact on a pivotal period of his career.
When questioned if he believed the honor had come at a late stage, Prosenjit dismissed the notion of timing. “I don’t perceive it that way. Consider when Soumitra Chatterjee received his accolades. What truly matters is that the government decided to bestow this award upon me. For that, I am profoundly thankful to the Union Ministry,” he stated.
Prosenjit Chatterjee's career
The actor began his film career as a child artist in the 1960s with Chhotto Jigyasha. He later took on leading roles, and in the 1980s, he made his directorial debut with a film titled Aandhiyan. The actor garnered significant acclaim for his performances in films such as Chokher Bali, Dosar, Shob Charitro Kalponik, Moner Maanush, Jaatishwar, Autograph and the dramas that earned the National Film Award, namely Mayurakshi and Jyeshthoputro.
Prosenjit also gained recognition in Hindi cinema through web series like Jubilee and Khakee: The Bengal Chapter.
Throughout his extensive and successful career, Prosenjit has received numerous awards. These include the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Bengali for Shankhachil in 2016 and the National Film Award for Special Jury Award / Special Mention for Dosar in 2007.
