K. Viswanath an outstanding filmmaker: Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday described K. Viswanath as an "outstanding filmmaker" and congratulated him for winning the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India's highest award in cinema.

"K. Viswanath has distinguished himself as an outstanding filmmaker. I congratulate him on being conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke award," Modi tweeted.

He also congratulated all those who got the National Film Awards on Wednesday. "We are proud of their creativity and contribution to cinema."

Vishwanath has directed 50 films, known for their strong content, endearing narrative, honest handling and cultural authenticity. Some of his major Hindi films include Sargam, Kaamchor, Sanjog, Jaag Utha Insan and Eeshwar.

The 87-year-old received the honour at the Vigyan Bhavan here from President Pranab Mukherjee.

Born in February 1930 at Gudivada (now in Andhra Pradesh), Viswanath has won five National Awards, 20 Nandi Awards (awarded by the Andhra Pradesh government) and 10 Filmfare Awards including Lifetime Achievement Award. He was conferred the Padma Shri in 1992.

His National Award winning movie, Swati Mutyam (The White Pearl), was India's official entry to the Academy Awards in the Best Foreign Film category in 1987.