Mumbai, April 12 (IANS): Film celebrities like Asha Bhosle and Prakash Raj Saturday congratulated veteran lyricist Gulzar for being chosen to receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
"Congratulations to Gulzarji for getting Dadasaheb Phalke Award," Asha, who has sung songs like "Mera kuch saaman", "Chhoti si kahaani se" and "Filhaal", penned by the writer, posted on microblogging site Twitter.
The announcement that Gulzar, whose real name is Sampooran Singh Kalra, will be feted with the award for 2013, was made by the ministry of information and broadcasting Saturday.
IANS tried to contact the lyricist at his residence here, but the person who attended the call said Gulzar was busy answering a barrage of congratulatory calls.
The Twitter world was abuzz with congratulatory messages for the multi-faceted talent who has dabbled in direction, screen writing, production and poetry and in writing memorable lyrics for songs galore.
Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar posted: "As one of his biggest fans, I am simply overjoyed to know that Gulzar saab has been conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke award! Take a bow, Sir."
Actress Kirron Kher, who is busy with her political career these days, also shared her good wishes.
"Many many congratulations to Gulzar saab for getting the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. One of the greatest lyricist, writer and director," she tweeted.
Southern star Prakash Raj wrote: "Phalke award got honoured by being bestowed to our Gulzar Saab...Proud and indebted to you Gulzar saab for everything you have given us (sic)."
Singer Rekha Bhardwaj, wife of Vishal Bhardwaj, whom Gulzar treats like a son, said: "My baba Gulzar has been awarded Dadasaheb Phalke Award. Woooohoooooo. Celebration starts."
Gulzar, 79, is the 45th winner of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
Even his daughter Meghna took to Twitter immediately after the news was announced to share her joy.
"Dadasaheb Phalke award for my father. So proud," she posted.
The award is conferred by the government for outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Indian cinema.
Born in 1934 in Punjab in pre-independence India, Gulzar started his career in 1956, and he continues to contribute to the film industry with his talent.