Amitabh Bachchan is in Bollywood for over 4 decades. From romance to thriller and even comedy, he has taken Indian cinema to another level with his work in various genres. A Padma Vibhushan recipient, the veteran actor, at 78, is one of the busiest stars in Bollywood currently. While he continues entertaining his fans, Mr. Bachchan will be honored with the 2021 FIAF Award by The International Federation of Film Archives (FIAF). The award will be virtually presented to Mr. Bachchan by Martin Scorsese and Christopher Nolan for his dedication and contribution to the preservation of the world’s film heritage. He will be the first Indian to receive the award. 

In a statement, Mr. Bachchan said, "I am greatly honoured to receive this award for a cause that I am deeply committed to. When I became the ambassador of the Film Heritage Foundation in 2015, I realised the extent of the neglect and colossal loss of our precious film heritage and how we continue to lose more of our legacy every day. Recognising the urgency of the situation, I have been working closely with them to do everything in our power to save our films and build a movement for film preservation in our part of the world. We must strengthen the idea that film archiving is as essential as filmmaking, and I do hope that we are able to garner further support for this cause from my colleagues in the film industry and the government, to enable us to realise our dream for building a centre that will preserve and showcase our magnificent film heritage."

Recommended Read: Prabhas, Deepika Padukone & Amitabh Bachchan's sci-fi thriller will go on floors around June-July, confirms director Nag Ashwin

Martin shared, "Safeguarding cinema is a global cause. Amitabh Bachchan’s advocacy for preserving India’s film legacy has been exceptional. With a career spanning over five decades, he is a celebrated actor who has put the considerable weight of his reputation behind the cause of film preservation in India and the entire subcontinent. They could not have chosen a more deserving individual to recognise this year."

Christopher added, "I know how imperative it is that representatives of the film industry around the world come together to ensure that we preserve our film heritage. I want to congratulate Amitabh Bachchan on receiving the 2021 honour. He has played an essential role in putting the cause of film preservation on the map in India and the subcontinent."

Workwise, Mr. Bachchan is gearing up for the release of Chehre and Jhund. His film, Brahmastra, is expected to release this year. The veteran actor will soon start shooting for Nag Ashwin's film with Deepika Padukone and Prabhas. Reportedly, he has signed Sooraj Barjatya's upcoming project.

(Source: Times Of India)