• Source:JND
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Bollywood actor Mithun Chakraborty and popular singer Usha Uthup received the prestigious Padma Bhushan award from President Draupadi Murmu on Monday for their contribution to Indian cinema and music industry. The two expressed their happiness after receiving the honour in Delhi and the 'Disco Dancer' star thanked the committee for selecting him for the award. 

Mithun Chakraborty told ANI, "I am very happy. I have never asked for anything for myself from anyone in my life. I am very happy because when someone receives so much respect and honour... it's the happiest moment." 

Image Courtesy: Pallav Paliwal

He added, "When I received the call informing me that I was being awarded the Padma Bhushan, I was silent for a minute because I hadn't expected it... because it's a big thing. But I didn't expect it. I am happy. Thank you to everyone on the committee who selected me.”

Usha Uthup became a little emotional while expressing her happiness and told ANI, "I am so, so happy. I am overflowing with joy... tears are visible in my eyes, you all can see. For me, this is the biggest moment of my life... to be recognised and appreciated by your country and, of course, by your government. What more could one ask for, truly?"

"I feel so good because if you are a classical singer or a classical dancer, or if you are classical in your art, then it's natural to eventually receive an award. But for people like us... we are ordinary people, so to be chosen for the Padma award is such a huge thing... because I only believe in peace and brotherhood, and I only believe that together, as a united force, we can do things for each other... make them smile through my music. That's all I'm interested in,” she further added. 

For the unversed, Padma Bhushan is the third-highest civilian honour given by the Government of India. 

Mithun Chakraborty is best known for his role in 'Disco Dancer', 'Agneepath', 'Tahader Katha', 'Swami Vivekananda' and many more. He was last seen in the Bengali movie 'Kabuliwala'. 

Usha Uthup is well known for her chartbuster songs including 'Hari Rama Hare Krishna', 'Hari Om Hari', 'Ramba Ho Ho Ho Samba', 'Koi Yahan Nache Nache', 'Darling' and many others.