Veteran filmmaker Shyam Benegal has been chosen for the prestigious Dada Saheb Phalke Award for the year 2005.
The announcement comes a day after the delayed National Film Awards were announced on Wednesday evening.
Instituted in 1969, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award is an annual award given by the Indian government for lifetime contribution to Indian cinema.
Benegal is considered one of the pioneers of the new wave in Indian cinema during the 1970's and 80's.
Benegal's memorable films include Ankur, Manthan, Suraj Ka Satwaan Ghoda, Bhumika, Kondura, Junoon, Kalyug, Mandi, Trikal, Mammo, Sardari Begum and the Making of the Mahatama.
