Ashok Saraf, a seasoned Marathi actor, has been honoured with the prestigious Maharashtra Bhushan Award for the year 2023. The announcement was made by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Tuesday (January 30) via social media. This award, bestowed by the state government, stands as the highest recognition. In his congratulatory message, Chief Minister Shinde acknowledged Saraf's versatility, highlighting his adeptness in comedy, villainous portrayals, and serious roles, commending the actor for his stellar performances across genres.
Recently, the official X account of the Maharashtra Chief Minister shared a photograph of the veteran actor and, in Marathi, announced, "Esteemed Marathi film and theatre artist Ashok Saraf has been selected by Chief Minister @mieknathshinde for the 2023 #महाराष्ट्रभूषण Award, recognizing his significant contributions to the arts. The Chief Minister personally conveyed his congratulations to Ashok Saraf."
The post continued, stating, "In extending his felicitations to Ashok Saraf, the Chief Minister emphasized that the actor's influence spans beyond comedy, encompassing a spectrum from serious roles to portraying antagonistic characters, showcasing his command over diverse acting dimensions that captivated audiences."
ज्येष्ठ मराठी चित्रपट आणि नाट्य अभिनेते अशोक सराफ यांना कला क्षेत्रातील भरीव योगदानासाठी २०२३ वर्षाचा मानाचा #महाराष्ट्रभूषण पुरस्कार देण्याची घोषणा मुख्यमंत्री @mieknathshinde यांनी केली आहे. मुख्यमंत्र्यांनी अशोक सराफ यांच्याशी बोलून त्यांचे अभिनंदनही केले.
— CMO Maharashtra (@CMOMaharashtra) January 30, 2024
अशोक सराफ यांनी… pic.twitter.com/u7F6KkDe8z
Commencing his journey in Marathi theatre, the 76-year-old actor gained prominence through acclaimed Marathi films like Ashi Hi Banva Banvi and Vajeer. Renowned for his multifaceted acting prowess, he has been a stalwart in the Marathi and Hindi entertainment realms for numerous decades. Among his noteworthy contributions are films and shows such as Dhum Dhadaka, Gupchup Gupchup, Chhoti Si Baat, Chashme Baddoor, Yeh Duniya Hai Rangeen, and Tuza Maza Jamena, showcasing the breadth of his talent across various cinematic and television projects.
Image Source: Twitter