New Delhi: Eminent theatre personality Ebrahim Alkazi was today conferred Delhi Government's Lifetime Achievement Award.

Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit presented the award to Alkazi for his distinguished contribution in the field of theatre and the arts. The award instituted by Delhi Government in 2004 to honour eminent personalities for their outstanding contribution to the field of music, dance, theatre, visual art and literature. It comprises a citation, shawl and a cheque of Rs 11 lakh.

The earlier recipients of this award were M S Subulakshmi in 2004 and Ustad Rahim Fahimuddin Dagar in 2007. Alkazi is the third recipient of this award. "In a civilised society, we must respect and recognise the work of the artists and appreciate it," Dikshit said presenting the award.

Dikshit further stated that it is a matter of great pleasure and satisfaction that the Lifetime Achievement award this year is being given to an outstanding personality in the field of theatre and arts. Alkazi, who has been decorated with several awards, including the Padma Bhushan, started his career as theatre director in 1950 to 1962 in Mumbai. In 1962, he became the Director of National School of Drama. He founded the NSD's Repertory Company and thus developed a taste and sense of responsibility in theatre.

Source : PTI