List of Dadasaheb Phalke Award Winners from 1969 to 2026, Check the Complete List

Did you know India’s film industry has a special award that honors legends for their lifetime contribution to cinema? It celebrates artists who have shaped movies with their talent, creativity, and dedication over many decades.

This prestigious honor is named after the father of Indian cinema and is considered the highest recognition in Indian films. It shines a spotlight on actors, directors, musicians, and other film personalities who have left a lasting impact on the industry.

Over the years, many great names from different languages and regions of India have received this award. From powerful performers to visionary filmmakers, the list reflects the rich and diverse journey of Indian cinema.

Since its beginning in 1969, the award has created a golden timeline of excellence. Each year adds another inspiring name to the list, making it a proud moment for the entire film fraternity and movie lovers alike.

About Dadasaheb Phalke Award

The award was started in 1969 to honor Dadasaheb Phalke, who is known as the Father of Indian Cinema. He directed India’s first full-length feature film, Raja Harishchandra, in 1913.

The award includes:

• Swarna Kamal (Golden Lotus) medallion
• A shawl
• Cash prize of ₹10 lakh

It recognizes lifetime achievement in Indian cinema.

Dadasaheb Phalke Awards 2026

The 16th Dada Saheb Phalke Film Festival-26 is scheduled to hold its main award ceremony on April 30, 2026. The festival includes film screenings, workshops, and award presentations celebrating independent and mainstream cinema.

The Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival (DPIFF) 2026, which is a private event and different from the government award, is currently accepting short film submissions. It is offering a ₹1,00,000 cash prize for the best short film.

Who received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2025?

In 2025 (75th National Film Awards ceremony), Mohanlal received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for the year 2023.

He has worked in more than 360 films across Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi cinema. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting praised his versatility, dedication, and powerful performances over nearly five decades.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated him and called him an icon of Indian cinema and Malayalam theatre.

Complete List of Dadasaheb Phalke Award Winners from 1969 to 2025

Below is the year-wise list of recipients of Dadasaheb Phalke Award:

Importance of the Award in Indian Cinema

The Dadasaheb Phalke Award is not given for a single film. It is awarded for lifetime achievement and long-term contribution. Many legendary actors, directors, music composers, and producers from different regional film industries have received this honor.

It highlights the unity and diversity of Indian cinema by recognizing talents from Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Bengali, Marathi, Kannada, and other film industries.

Difference Between Dadasaheb Phalke Award and Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards

It is important to note that the official Dadasaheb Phalke Award is presented by the Government of India during the National Film Awards.

The Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards (DPIFF) is a separate private event that honors films and artists in various categories each year.