India's Information and Broadcasting minister Prakash Jawadekar announced on twitter. Minister Jawadekar said, " Happy to announce #Dadasaheb Phalke award for 2019 to one of the greatest actors in history of Indian cinema Rajnikanth. His contribution as actor, producer and screenwriter has been iconic." Prime minister Narendra Modi also Congratulated Thalaiva for award. Rajanikanth born as Shivaji Rao Gaekwad to Marathi speaking family in Bangalore in 1950. He was named after