Anant Nag gets Padma Bhushan: Well-deserved and long overdue, say netizens

#AnantNagforPadma was a hashtag that Kannada cinema lovers have been using time and again to draw the attention of the powers-that-be to confer a great artiste with one of the nation’s highest civilian honours. The late Puneeth Rajkumar and Rakshit Shetty have tweeted in the past wishing for Anant Nag to be conferred with the distinction. Year-after-year, it never bore fruit, until now, when the veteran actor joined Nandamuri Balakrishna and Ajith as recipients of the Padma Bhushan for contribution in the field of art.

His fans, of course, have been ecstatic that the recognition he so deserved has finally come his way, after 5 decades in cinema. Social media is abuzz with congratulatory messages for the veteran actor. “A well-deserved honour for a legend who shaped Kannada cinema with his unforgettable performances,” was one of the most commonly seen comments after the news broke.

Here’s what netizens are saying about Anant Nag’s Padma Bhushan recognition

• The day couldn't get much sweeter after knowing my all-time favourite Actor Anant Nag is getting conferred by Padma Bhushan award – Vikram Prabhu
• Padma Bhushan Anant Nag has a nice ring to it. No artist or actor deserved more. It is a proud moment for all Kannadigas. – Harish Itagi
• Heartfelt congratulations to the legendary Anant Nag Sir on receiving the prestigious Padma Bhushan! As a young actor, I’m deeply inspired by your incredible journey and unmatched contribution to Indian cinema. Truly honored to witness such a remarkable legacy. – Koushik Gowda
• Anant Nag sir, a name that shaped the love for Kannada cinema for years. His lifetime of mesmerizing performances, unforgettable characters have left a mark for generations. Him receiving Padma Bhushan, feels personal for all who grew up watching his magic – Kirti Hegde

This year, Karnataka has several Padma awardees, with renowned violinist L Subramaniam named for a Padma Vibhushan, while puppeteer Bhimavva Doddabalappa Shillekyathara, Grammy winner Ricky Kej, Venkappa Ambaji Sugatekar and Raghu Hassan, get Padma Shri awards in the Arts category.