DIFF 2015: Bollywood stalwart Naseeruddin Shah honoured

Four legends of the movie industry were honoured at a glittering ceremony on the opening night of the 12th edition of the Dubai International Film Festival.

Bollywood stalwart Naseeruddin Shah received his lifetime achievement award, along with French-Tunisian actor Sami Bouajila, Egyptian star Ezzat Al Alayli and celebrated French actress Catherine Deneuve.

In a diverse acting career spanning 40 years, Naseer has worked in over 200 movies, and has charmed both Bollywood and Hollywood with his versatility and charm. From championing 'parallel cinema' with stellar performances in 'Sparsh', 'Paar', 'Aakrosh' and 'Chakra', Naseer also found a footing in Hollywood with 'The League of Extraordinary Gentleman'.

"I express my appreciation for this lifetime achievement award. Though I must say receiving the lifetime achievement is like someone's telling you 'we've had enough of you, and you can go away'. But, I promise you I am going anywhere. And I hope I will be here in another 20 years to receive another lifetime achievement award," said Naeer to thunderous applause.

Titled the grande dame of French cinema, Deneuve’s illustrious career which spans almost 60 years and includes more than 120 films.After making her screen debut aged just 13, she went on to take on enigmatic female leads.

"It's a great honour, and I'm very pleased to be here at the festival in Dubai, to be with you tonight. It's a great pleasure for me. Thank you very much," she said.

Ezzat too boasts of a spectacular innings in front of the camera, with his roles in 'Earth' (1968), 'The water seller is dead!' (1977), 'The necklace and bracelet' (1986), and 'Citizen Masri' (1991) marking a new wave of change in Egyptian cinema.

Sami Bouajila, who was unable to attend the opening night, was also honoured with the year's prestigious title to honour his incredible career, spanning three decades and forty titles. Sami is known for his eclectic range of acting choices, and celebrated for his performances in 'Les Temoins' and 'Indigenes'. 

Video & pictures: Sneha May Francis

Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.