Veteran Actor Anupam Kher Honoured at Maharashtra State Film Awards 2025
Mumbai, August 6 – Celebrated Indian actor Anupam Kher was conferred with the Raj Kapoor Lifetime Achievement Award at the combined ceremony of the 60th and 61st Maharashtra State Film Awards held on August 5. The emotional moment was witnessed by prominent personalities and marked yet another milestone in Kher's illustrious four-decade-long career in Indian cinema.
Taking to Instagram, the 70-year-old actor shared a heartfelt message thanking the Government of Maharashtra, including Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, and Cultural Minister Ashish Shelar, for recognising his long-standing contribution to Indian films.
"Mumbai Gave Me That One Chance" – Anupam Kher’s Emotional Tribute
In a video posted to his Instagram, Kher wrote:
“RAJ KAPOOR LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD: Thank you Govt. Of Maharashtra… I am deeply honoured and humbled! Maharashtra, especially the city of Mumbai, has made all (and continues to) my dreams come true. Mumbai as a city has the largest heart in the world! It gives everybody that ONE chance. Also, Raj Kapoor ji has been an inspiration for me. To get an award named after him is surreal and most important! Jai Hind! Jai Maharashtra!”
The video shows Kher on stage accepting the award, seated next to veteran actress Tanuja Mukherjee and her daughter Kajol, both esteemed names in Indian cinema.
A Glimpse Into Kher’s Journey from Chawl to Cinematic Greatness
In his acceptance speech, Anupam Kher reflected on his humble beginnings:
“I came to Mumbai on June 3, 1981. Despite being a gold medalist from the National School of Drama, the job I was looking for wasn’t available. I was living in a small room in a chawl and didn’t even know the address. Those memories are now 40 years old, but my love for Mumbai remains the same. It’s a city with a big heart. Everyone who comes here definitely gets an opportunity.”
These words resonated deeply with fans and aspiring actors, as Kher once again highlighted Mumbai’s unique ability to offer a platform to dreamers from across the country.
The Legacy of the Raj Kapoor Award
The Raj Kapoor Lifetime Achievement Award, named after the iconic filmmaker and actor Raj Kapoor, honours those who have made outstanding contributions to Indian cinema over decades. Known for his landmark films and pioneering storytelling, Raj Kapoor remains an emblematic figure of Bollywood’s golden era. The award is a celebration not only of a recipient’s career but also of the continuing influence of Kapoor’s vision in Indian film.
About the Maharashtra State Film Awards
Organised by the Department of Cultural Affairs, Government of Maharashtra, the Maharashtra State Film Awards have long been a prestigious platform recognizing excellence in Marathi and Indian cinema. This year’s event combined the 60th and 61st editions, showcasing achievements in acting, direction, screenplay, and more.
Not Just An Award, But A Moment of Legacy
Anupam Kher’s journey from a small-town boy to one of India’s most respected film actors is emblematic of the city he praises—Mumbai, a city that rewards hard work, passion, and perseverance. With over 500 films across multiple languages, Kher’s diverse roles—from comedies like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge to intense performances in A Wednesday and The Kashmir Files—have made him a household name.
Receiving the Raj Kapoor Award places him in the league of legends, and it’s only fitting that this honour came in a city that helped him script his success story.
Final Thoughts from The Trending People
Anupam Kher’s recognition with the Raj Kapoor Lifetime Achievement Award is more than a personal achievement—it's a reflection of his impact on Indian cinema. His journey, steeped in dedication and resilience, serves as an inspiration for generations to come.
As Maharashtra continues to honour cinematic excellence, this moment marks a poignant reminder of the timeless power of storytelling and the city of Mumbai’s role as its beating heart.