IFFI 2023 honored iconic Madhuri Dixit with Special Recognition Award

New Delhi, November 20, 2023:

Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag Thakur congratulated veteran Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit on being awarded the ‘Special Recognition for Contribution to Indian Cinema’ at the 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI).

In a tweet, Thakur described Dixit as “an icon across the ages” who has “graced our screens with unparalleled talent for four incredible decades.” He highlighted some of her most iconic onscreen characters like Nisha from Hum Aapke Hain Koun, Chandramukhi from Devdas, Begum Para from Pukar, and Rajjo from Gulaab Gang among others.

Thakur lauded Dixit’s versatility as an actress and her contribution to Indian cinema. “From the effervescent Nisha to the captivating Chandramukhi, the majestic Begum Para to the indomitable Rajjo, her versatility knows no bounds,” he tweeted.

The Minister said that Dixit has redefined excellence in cinema with her talent and charisma. “Today, we are filled with admiration as we present the ‘Special Recognition for Contribution to Indian Cinema’ Award to the talented, charismatic actress who has redefined excellence in cinema, at the 54th International Film Festival of India. A celebration of an extraordinary journey, a tribute to an everlasting legacy!” he further tweeted.

The International Film Festival of India (IFFI), founded in 1952, is one of the most prominent film festivals in Asia. This year’s edition is being held in Goa from November 20 to 28.

Madhuri Dixit made her acting debut in 1984 with Abodh and went on to deliver blockbuster hits like Tezaab, Ram Lakhan, Dil, Saajan, Beta, Khalnayak, Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!, Dil To Pagal Hai, Devdas and others. She took a sabbatical after her marriage in 1999 and made a comeback with Devdas in 2002 which won her numerous accolades.

In a career spanning almost four decades, Dixit has been honoured with six Filmfare Awards and was awarded the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian honour in the country in 2008. She is considered one of the most successful and iconic actresses of Indian cinema with a huge fan following across all age groups.

The special recognition awarded to her at IFFI is being seen as a celebration of her glorious career and acknowledgement of her contribution to Indian cinema. Film critics and trade analysts believe the award is a fitting honour for an actress of Dixit’s caliber who has delivered some of the most memorable performances on screen over nearly four decades.

As Anurag Thakur said in his tweet, the award is a tribute to Dixit’s extraordinary journey and everlasting legacy as a cinematic legend who has redefined excellence in acting with her talent, beauty, grace and versatility.