Shah Rukh Khan to Receive Honorary Leopard Achievement Award at Locarno Film Festival 2024

The Locarno Film Festival has announced that Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan will receive the prestigious Leopard Achievement Award at the 77th edition of the festival. This honor recognizes Khan’s exceptional career and immense contribution to Indian cinema. The award ceremony will take place on Saturday, August 10, at Piazza Grande, the heart of the festival.

Giona A. Nazzaro, Artistic Director of the Locarno Film Festival, expressed his excitement, stating, “To welcome a living legend like Shah Rukh Khan in Locarno is a dream come true! The wealth and breadth of his contribution to Indian cinema is unprecedented. 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.”

As part of the celebration, the festival will showcase one of Khan’s pivotal films, Devdas (2002), directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. This grand love story will screen during the festival, offering audiences a glimpse into the actor’s emotional depth and versatility.

Khan’s career spans over three decades, marked by collaborations with India’s most prominent directors and stars. His international recognition includes accolades such as the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (2007) and the prestigious Légion d’honneur (2014) from the French government.

Beyond the award ceremony, fans will have a unique opportunity to engage with the star. Shah Rukh Khan will participate in a public conversation at the Forum Spazio Cinema on Sunday, August 11, allowing audiences to gain insights into his journey and connect with the man behind the iconic screen persona.

The Pardo alla Carriera Award honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the world of cinema. Khan joins a distinguished list of past recipients, including Francesco Rosi, Claude Goretta, Claudia Cardinale, and Jane Birkin.

The Locarno Film Festival, held from August 7 to 17, 2024, offers a unique cinematic experience amidst the breathtaking scenery of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding mountains.