Veteran Indian actress and multilingual artist Shabana Azmi was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award as part of the 16th International Film Festival held in Bengaluru. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah presented the prestigious award at Kaveri Residence, along with a cheque of ₹10 lakh.
Renowned poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar accompanied Shabana Azmi at the event. Expressing his admiration, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah recalled her presence in the iconic visual poem Mile Sur Mera Tumhara, stating, “We greatly admire it, and I have seen you in it.”
During the event, Shabana Azmi and Javed Akhtar praised Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage and its prominence in the field of music. Responding to their appreciation, the Chief Minister highlighted the contributions of Karnataka-born Hindustani music stalwarts like Bhimsen Joshi, Kumar Gandharva, and Gangubai Hangal, calling them the pride of the state and emphasizing Dharwad’s significance in the musical world.
The Chief Minister further addressed the importance of artist-friendly policies, mentioning that just as the Copyright Act benefits artists and musicians, steps will be taken to ensure that GST regulations are also favorable to them. He assured that the matter would be raised in the GST Council.
Government Secretary Kaveri, Chief Minister’s Media Advisor K.V. Prabhakar, and Information & Public Relations Department Commissioner Hemant Nimbalkar extended a warm welcome to Shabana Azmi and Javed Akhtar at the event.
Additionally, Karnataka’s Additional Chief Secretary L.K. Atheeq, Karnataka Chalanachitra Academy President Sadhu Kokila, and Vidyashankar, the Artistic Director of the 16th International Film Festival, were present to honor the distinguished guests.
