PTI
Pics by Rons Bantwal for Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai (AF)

Mumbai, May 2: Bollywood's living legend Dilip Kumar was today conferred the Phalke Ratna Award, instituted in memory of the 'Father of Indian Cinema' by the Dadasaheb Phalke Academy here.

Kumar, who was selected for the honour for his devoted services to the film industry, received the award at a function marking the 138th birth anniversary of the poineering filmmaker.

Actor Jeetendra and veteran actress Bina Rai of "Taj Mahal" fame too were presented awards for their contribution to cinema.

 
 
Actress Amrita Rao was also awarded for her performance in the Sooraj Barjatya film "Vivah" released in 2006.

Several craftsmen from the various fields of the film industry across the country - ranging from production, direction to choreography and cinematography - were felicitated in the ceremony.

Unveiling Phalke's potrait, chief guest of the day director Yash Chopra said, "Dadasaheb was an exponent of film making. One cannot forget that he laid the foundation of the industry and it is because of him that the industry is progressing today by leaps and bounds."

Dadasaheb Phalke Federation president Dharmesh Tiwari stressed the need to improve the status of common workers and technicians of the industry.

"It is often seen that contribution of these technicians goes unnoticed in the glitz and glamour of cinema.

"We often socialise in many award functions but today is a common platform for all veterans gathered here to initiate welfare programmes for those working behind the screens," he said.