Panaji: Bollywood stalwart Prem Chopra along with veteran Kathak maestro Pandit Birju Maharaj, film composer Ilaiyaraaja, Tamil actor Aravind Swamy and Manju Norah were honoured at the closing ceremony of the 50th International Film Festival of India.
The hosts of the evening - actors Kunal Kapoor and Sonali Kulkarni - called on stage Pramod Sawant, Goa Chief Minister; Satya Pal Malik, Governor of Goa; Union Minister Babul Supriyo; actor-turned-politician Ravi Kishan; MP Roopa Ganguly; Information and Broadcasting Secretary Amit Khare and Parimal Rai, Goa Chief Secretary to felicitate the legends with a shawl and a memento.
Pandit Birju who was not in attendance physically said in a video message played at the ceremony, "I am receiving this award for my contribution to the film industry and I wish to continue the same."
After a successful run of eight days, the golden jubilee edition of the festival has come to an end. The ceremony also honoured the film 'Hellaro' directed by Abhishek Shah with a special mention.