Shah Rukh Khan is set to receive the prestigious lifetime achievement award, the Pardo alla Carriera, or career leopard, at the 2024 Locarno Film Festival. This remarkable recognition not only shines a spotlight on the Indian film industry but also underscores Shah Rukh Khan’s extraordinary contributions to global cinema. The accolade, known as the ‘Pardo alla Carriera Ascona-Locarno Tourism,’ marks a significant milestone as Shah Rukh becomes the first Indian personality to be so honored.
The illustrious list of previous recipients of this award includes renowned Italian filmmaker Francesco Rosi, the legendary American singer and actor Harry Belafonte, and the acclaimed Malaysian director Tsai Ming-liang. This elite company highlights the global significance of the Pardo alla Carriera, placing Shah Rukh Khan among the most celebrated figures in the world of cinema.
Shah Rukh’s return to the big screen in 2023 after a five-year hiatus was triumphant, marked by the immense success of Pathaan. This blockbuster action film set the stage for two more back-to-back hits: Jawan, another action-packed movie, and Dunki, a thought-provoking social drama. These films not only reaffirmed his status as a megastar but also showcased his versatility and enduring appeal.
In recognition of his remarkable career, the Locarno Film Festival will also screen Shah Rukh’s 2002 hit Devdas, directed by the acclaimed Sanjay Leela Bhansali. This iconic film remains one of Shah Rukh’s most memorable performances and is sure to be a highlight for festival-goers. Additionally, Shah Rukh will participate in a public Q&A session at the Forum @Spazio Cinema on August 11. This event offers fans and festival attendees a rare opportunity to engage with the beloved actor in an intimate and interactive setting.
Giona A. Nazzaro, the artistic director of the Locarno Film Festival, expressed his excitement and admiration for Shah Rukh Khan, describing the opportunity to welcome him as “a dream come true.” Nazzaro lauded Khan for the “wealth and breadth of his contribution” to Indian cinema and his remarkable ability to maintain a deep connection with his audience.
. Praising Shah Rukh, Nazzaro said, “Khan is a king who has never lost touch with the audience that crowned him. This brave and daring artist has always been willing to challenge himself while remaining true to what his fans all over the world eagerly expect from his films. A true people’s hero, sophisticated and down to earth, Shah Rukh Khan is a legend of our times.”
According to the festival’s website, the Pardo alla Carriera Ascona-Locarno Tourism award pays tribute to individuals whose artistic contributions have redefined cinema and the collective imagination. The award ceremony will be held on August 10 at the stunning Piazza Grande in Locarno, Switzerland, offering a picturesque backdrop for this momentous occasion. The tribute comprises not only the awards ceremony but also a conversation with the audience and a small retrospective, providing a comprehensive celebration of Shah Rukh’s illustrious career.
Shah Rukh Khan, a recipient of the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors, boasts an extensive filmography with over 100 feature films to his name. His contributions to cinema have been internationally recognized, earning accolades such as the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres and the Légion d’honneur from the Government of France. At 58 years old, Shah Rukh continues to captivate audiences around the world with his charismatic performances and unwavering dedication to his craft.
The Locarno Film Festival, which runs from August 7 to 17, promises to be a grand celebration of world cinema. Shah Rukh Khan’s presence and the conferring of the Pardo alla Carriera upon him will undoubtedly be one of the festival’s highlights. As the world eagerly anticipates this historic event, fans of Shah Rukh Khan and cinema enthusiasts alike can look forward to a memorable and culturally enriching experience at the 2024 Locarno Film Festival.
With a career spanning decades and a legacy that continues to inspire, Shah Rukh Khan’s recognition at the Locarno Film Festival is a testament to his enduring impact on the world of cinema. This prestigious award not only honors his past achievements but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of filmmakers and actors. As the festival draws near, the anticipation builds, and the world waits with bated breath to celebrate the ‘King of Bollywood’ in all his glory.
