MUMBAI: Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan was yesterday bestowed with France’s highest civilian award for his contribution to cinema.
The actor was honoured as a “Knight of the Legion of Honour” by French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius at the Taj Mahal Palace hotel in Mumbai.
“There are different moments in life that make you feel that you are on the right track. This is one such moment,” said Khan, 48, one of Indian cinema’s most recognisable faces.
Fabius said the French people hailed the actor’s “talent and generosity, which arouse the enthusiasm of a vast audience across the world, transcending cultural and historical differences and bringing together people from all walks of life to his films”.
In a career spanning three decades, Khan has made himself the biggest box office draw in Bollywood as the hero of romantic dramas and high-octane action movies. Amitabh Bachchan received the French award in 2007.
Delhi govt cracks down on hoarders
New Delhi: The Delhi government yesterday launched a massive crackdown on hoarders of essential commodities, a day after the centre issued directives to all states to act against them. Meanwhile, the city government said it will sell onions and potatoes at wholesale prices through its 200 stalls and mobile vans.
“Our 52 teams have raided 549 premises and 104 traders have been prosecuted under the Essential Commodities Act. The raids will continue till late (Tuesday) night,” said S.S. Yadav, commissioner for food supply and weights and measures.
Vegetable prices, especially of onions, have increased in the capital and other parts of the country, causing concern to the Narendra Modi government at the centre.
Agencies
