Dilip Kumar is the forefather of Bollywood: Shah Rukh Khan

‘Dilip sahab is more deserving than anybody else. Even words like ‘icon’ are very less for him. He is the forefather, the pillar of the film industry... Amongst the last few pillars left. I think what he has received is huge,’ Shah Rukh Khan says.

Shah Rukh Khan has always idolised veteran actor Dilip Kumar and considers him a pillar of strength for the film industry. The 50-year-old Happy New Year actor said even tags like “icon” are small for Kumar and him getting the honour of Padma Vibhushan calls for a big celebration. “Dilip sahab is more deserving than anybody else. Even words like ‘icon’ are very less for him. He is the forefather, the pillar of the film industry... Amongst the last few pillars left. I think what he has received is huge,” Shah Rukh Khan told reporters.

Bollywood actor Dilip Kumar wears the Padma Vibhushan award as he poses with his wife, actress Saira Banu in Mumbai.(AFP)

“No matter how many awards he gets, it will be less for him because of his art, beauty, Saira ji’s support. He is one of the greatest human beings apart from being the actor. I know them personally so I can say that. It’s a moment of big celebration.” he added.

The thespian was presented the Padma Vibhushan by Union Home minister Ranjnath Singh at his residence in suburban Bandra, Mumbai. The 93-year-old legend was presented a medal, a certificate and a shawl by Singh, in the presence of the actor’s wife Saira Bano.

In a career spanning over six decades, Kumar starred in films like Andaz, Aan, Devdas and the historical Mughal-e-Azam. Called as the ‘tragedy king of Bollywood’, he also did films like Kranti, Shakti, Karma and Saudagar. His last film was Qila in 1998.