During his acceptance speech at the 70th National Film Awards in New Delhi, Mithun Chakraborty candidly discussed the challenges and prejudice he faced early in his Bollywood career. Honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, he recounted how many people told him that dark-skinned actors would struggle to find success in the industry. Mithun humorously recalled praying to God, asking, “Could you change my colour?” However, he ultimately accepted his complexion and focused on enhancing his dancing skills, aspiring to be so extraordinary that audiences would overlook his skin color. This determination led him to become the "sexy, dusky Bengali babu" known for his charisma.
Mithun also reflected on his first National Film Award win for Mrigayaa, sharing how he felt invincible, likening himself to Al Pacino. He admitted that his confidence led to arrogance, as he began treating producers dismissively until reality hit when a producer ejected him from his office. This humbling moment made him realize that he was not Al Pacino and marked the end of his delusions about stardom.
In his speech, he expressed that all his achievements were a result of hard work. Although he often questioned God regarding his struggles, receiving the Dadasaheb Phalke Award brought him peace and a vow to never complain again.
Mithun, an alumnus of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune, has made significant contributions to Hindi and Bengali cinema. Alongside his win for Mrigayaa, he has earned two additional National Awards for Tahader Katha (best actor) and Swami Vivekananda (best supporting actor). His filmography includes popular titles such as Surakshaa (1979), Disco Dancer (1982), Dance Dance (1987), and Pyaar Jhukta Nahi (1985), making him a beloved figure in Indian cinema.
