DSPFFA 2024 recognises Saira Banu and Rakesh Roshan

Among the recipients are veteran director/producer Rakesh Roshan and actress Saira Banu. However, health challenges prevent Saira Banu from attending. Battling excruciating heel pain and a debilitating knee condition for a month has made it impossible for her to participate in the ceremony. In her heartfelt message dated May 25, 2024, the veteran actress expressed her sincere apologies and requested an alternate arrangement to receive the award personally.

“I have been battling excruciating heel pain and a debilitating knee condition for a month. Regrettably, I am unable to attend the ceremony on May 30, 2024. Please extend my sincere apologies and arrange for an alternate date for me to collect the award personally at your Foundation office,” says Saira Banu Khan.

“Saira Banu is truly deserving of this recognition. Despite her health challenges, she has graciously accepted the award, and we are arranging a special visit to honour her. She has confirmed and accepted the award. The letter she has sent clearly states about her ill-health. We are requesting Shah Rukh Khan to honour her with the trophy at any other date convenient to her, which is clearly mentioned in her letter,” says Ashok Shekhar, vice president, DSPFFA.

Regarding director/producer Rakesh Roshan, Ashok Shekhar confirms, “Rakesh Roshan is worthy of this award. He has confirmed it verbally, and tomorrow we are meeting him at his office at 3:30. However, it is confirmed.”