VIJAYAWADA: Telugu actor and film director Kasinadhuni Viswanath was feted with Lifetime achievement Award by Rotary club, Vijayawada at a glittering function held here in the city on Sunday. The Dada Saheb Phalke awardee said that he was very happy to receive the award during the felicitation programme organised by Rotary Club, Vijayawada on the occasion of 75 years platinum jubilee celebrations.
K Viswanath said he was more than grateful to the people who appreciated his works. He was honoured to receive the recognition bestowed on him in the form of Dadasaheb Phalke Award and many such felicitations and awards from renowned organisations.
“Vijayawada is just like my hometown. I have many memories in here- right from the streets to the amazing food. For 30 years, I have shared a special bond with this city. I don’t think all this recognition came after receiving the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. People accept me as Kasinadhuni Viswanath. I am overwhelmed to receive the Lifetime achievement award. I am more happier to see people and their love towards me,” he added.
K Viswanath had started his journey in the Telugu film industry as a sound recordist. He struck gold as a director with Thodi Kodallu, his first feature film in Telugu that went on to become a superhit and also received a National Award. From then on, he went on to direct award-winning films such as Sankarabharanam, Sagara Sangamam, Swati Mutyam and Saptapadi.
The octogenarian has been the recipient of many other awards like the Padma Shri in 1992, five National Awards, 20 Nandi Awards, 10 Filmfare trophies including the Lifetime Achievement award.