Bollywood director Chandraprakash Dwivedi has been conferred the Padma Shri award for his contribution to the arts. He is best known for directing the television epic Chanakya and the films Pinjar and Mohalla Assi. His next, Prithviraj starring Akshay Kumar and Manushi Chillar, is set to release this year. 
 
“I’m deeply humbled to have been bestowed with the prestigious Padma Shri award," the filmmaker shares.

"I have been fortunate enough to creatively collaborated with some of the best minds of the Hindi film and television industry. They have enriched me, pushed my boundaries and made me better creatively. I share this huge moment of my life with all these people who have shaped me and my thinking."

The director adds, “I have always been someone who have tried to tell a story that is dipped in our country’s history and culture and I dedicate this award to my country. This recognition will drive me to tell stories that celebrate my motherland in its full glory like my next Prithviraj in which we will honour the valour of one of the bravest warriors that India has ever seen."

Prithviraj is based on the life of 12th century ruler Prithviraj Chauhan, battlef Muhammad of Ghor. The film has been produced by Yash Raj Films. It was expected to release this month bit has been postponed.