Mithun Chakraborty Says He 'Started Acting Like Al Pacino' After Debut Film Won Him National Award

Mithun Chakraborty received the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award at the 70th National Film Awards on 8th October in Delhi. President Droupadi Murmu presented the award at Vigyan Bhawan. In a recent interview, the Disco Dancer star shared his experiences in the film industry while recalling how winning a National Award for his debut film made him feel like 'Al Pacino', only to be told to leave by a producer shortly after.

Mithun Chakraborty revealed being acting like Al Pacino during her early days of success

After receiving the Dadasaheb Phalke Awards, Mithun Chakraborty gave an interview to the media organisation where he reflected on his early struggles and a setback caused by his overconfidence.

Chandaal actor said, “After Mrigayaa, I got my first National Award. Jo hota hai, I started acting like Al Pacino. Aisa lag raha tha that I am the greatest actor. Mera attitude change ho gaya toh producer ne dekh ke bola ‘get out.’ (As it happens, I started acting like Al Pacino. It felt like I was the greatest actor. My attitude changed as if I am such a huge actor, so the producer saw this and said, ‘get out’. Then I realised my mistake.”

Mithun Chakraborty on being humiliated in the film industry

Mithun Chakraborty, who is also the recipient of Padma Bhushan, the third highest civilian award by the government of India, mentioned how he was disrespected in the film industry. He said, “Film industry mein kaala rang nahi chalega. Jitna adman ho skate tha, hua”.

However, the actor later decided to look beyond his skin colour and focus on polishing his dancing skills, which now he is lovingly called a ‘Disco Dancer’. The veteran actor said, “I decided to dance then. I wanted people to look at my feet, not at my face or my skin colour. Sab filmon me pairon se dance kiya, aur log mere rang ko bhul gaye”. Chakraborty referred to his own journey and told young people "if I can do it, anybody can do it."

Mithun Chakraborty is fondly referred to as Mithun Da by his fans. He made his film debut in 1976 with Mrigayaa, which was loved by the audience for his versatile acting skills.