Archive · 18 Sep 2026
Anant Nag Says Awards System Changed After Modi Came
Anant Nag is a veteran Indian actor who has worked for more than five decades.
He said film awards were often influenced by favouritism and nepotism before 2014.
He believes the awards system changed after Narendra Modi became prime minister.
Nag also said awards were never his main reason for acting.
He cared more about applause from audiences.
He first wanted to join the armed forces but was rejected because of health and weight requirements.
A theatre opportunity then led him to become an actor.
At age 78, he has stopped accepting roles because newer scripts do not suit him and now spends more time meditating.
He will receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Award on September 22.
Anant Nag said favouritism and nepotism were widespread in film awards before 2014.
He attributed changes in the awards system to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s rise to power.
Nag said he pursued acting for audience appreciation, not awards.
He will receive the 2024 Dadasaheb Phalke Award at the National Film Awards ceremony on September 22.
Nag said he stopped acting about three years ago because recent scripts did not match his expectations.
- Who
- Veteran actor Anant Nag, who is set to receive the 2024 Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
- What
- Nag discussed alleged favouritism in earlier film awards, his acting career, and his decision to stop accepting roles.
- When
- His remarks were reported on September 18, 2026; the award ceremony is scheduled for September 22, 2026.
- Where
- The 72nd National Film Awards ceremony will take place in Kevadia.
- Why
- Nag said he stepped away from acting because recent scripts and changing filmmaking priorities no longer matched what he was seeking.
- Award
- Anant Nag will receive the 2024 Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
- Ceremony
- The award will be presented at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony.
- Ceremony date
- September 22, 2026.
- Ceremony location
- Kevadia.
- Career span
- Nag has acted for more than five decades.
- Scripts considered
- He said he recently received 100–150 scripts but found none suitable.
- Acting status
- Nag said he stopped acting around three years ago.