51st Dadasaheb Phalke award for Rajinikanth

The Narendra Modi government has conferred this year's Dadasaheb Phalke award to superstar Rajinikanth.

Confirming the development, Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar said, "Happy to announce this year's Dadasaheb Phalke award to one of the greatest actors in the history of Indian cinema, Rajinikanth. His contribution as actor, producer & screenwriter has been iconic."

"India every year gives Dadasaheb Phalke awards for a film personality. This year, this selection has been made by a jury. This year's jury comprised Asha Bhonsle, Mohanlal, Vishwajeet Chatterjee, Shankar Mahadevan and Subhash Ghai. All five jurists held consultations, and there was consensus on Rajinikanth's name," Javadekar said.

"Rajinikanth has been shining like the sun in the cine world for the last 50 years. Through his talent, hard work and commitment, he has made a place in people's hearts," he added.

This is a developing story. More updates to follow