Veteran actor Kamal Haasan on Sunday dedicated the French honour of Chevalier Award for him to his "admirers and audience" and said the prestigious recognition humbled him.
"On this occasion, I bow before my more deserving forerunners Satyajit Ray and Sivaji Ganesan who made even the common man realise the value of Chevalier award," the 61-year-old actor said in an audio message.
The award, which is yet another laurel for the actor, is in recognition of his high level of artistic excellence and his distinguished career achievements. It will be presented to the National award-winning actor at a special ceremony soon.
"I dedicate this award to my admirers and audience who give me the tenacity of purpose to pursue to this day and moment my arts," he said.
He said the award "humbles me rather than stiffening me with pride."
He also said he realized he’s not alone in his chosen field. “Teachers and admirers are bounded around me. With motherly care, they have applauded my every little step forward.
Though there was the "melancholy" of his parents not being alive to "see this day", other elders and youngsters were there in the family to "enjoy it," he added.
The Nadigar Sangam (Artistes' Association) and DMK Treasurer and Opposition Leader in Tamil Nadu Assembly M K Stalin greeted the actor for getting the French award.
The award was a "recognition" of the Tamil cinema industry, a sangam release said, adding the actors wanted to felicitate Haasan by conducting a function but said a decision on this would be taken after consulting him.
Stalin hailed Haasan as a "multi-faceted" actor and extended his hearty greetings to him.
In a Twitter post, Stalin wished more such awards to the actor "who has come up due to hardwork."
The award is presented to recognize eminent artists and writers, as well as people who have contributed significantly to furthering the arts in France and throughout the world.
(With Inputs from Digital Native)