K Viswanath a 'guiding force' in Indian films: Naidu

Union minister M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday lauded renowned actor-director Kasinadhuni Viswanath on being named for the prestigious Dada Saheb Phalke award for his outstanding contribution to the film industry, hailing him as a “guiding force”.

“My compliments to renowned film director and great actor Kasinadhuni Viswanath for being conferred the award,” the Information and Broadcasting minister said.

He said the award is conferred by the Indian government for outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema.

“He deserves it. The committee has made a recommendation and I have accepted it as the minister in-charge. He is icon in the film industry and known for classical and traditional art, music and dance,” Naidu said.

He said Viswanath has been a ‘guiding force’ in the Indian film industry.

87-year-old Viswanath became the 48th recipient of the award, the highest recognition in Indian cinema, which consists of a golden lotus, a cash prize of Rs 10 lakhs and a shawl.

The award for the year 2016 will be conferred by President Pranab Mukherjee at a function on May 3 at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi.