The Maharashtra State Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs has announced the recipients of the Maharashtra State Film Awards 2025, honoring some of the most prominent figures in Indian cinema for their achievements in the industry.Among this year’s honorees, a famous actor, director and film producer Prasad Oak will be awarded the Chitrapati V. Shantaram Special Contribution Award, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Marathi cinema. Over the years, Oak has established himself as one of the most versatile and successful actors in the Marathi film industry, and is widely acclaimed for his acting and directorial work. The honor celebrates his continued contribution to cinema and his dedication to meaningful storytelling.The government has also announced that Pt. Hridaynath Mangeshkar receives Chitrapati V. Shantaram Jeevan Gaurav Puraskar, where veteran actor Salim Khan will be honored with the Raj Kapoor Jeevan Gaurav Puraskar. Famous Actress Rani Mukerji has been nominated for the Raj Kapoor Special Award.Expressing his gratitude after receiving the award, Prasad Oak said: “I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to the members of the Maharashtra State Department of Cultural Affairs for this incredible honor. I grew up watching the works of V. Shantaram ji and learned from the wonderful things he did for Indian cinema. To receive such a prestigious award in his name is a great honor for me.“He added, “I am very thankful to the directors, producers and colleagues who believed in me and gave me the opportunity to grow as an artist. I am also very thankful to the audience whose love and encouragement have been driving my journey. I give this honor to my family, who have stood by me at every moment of my life. This realization motivates me to continue working with the same enthusiasm and sincerity.“The recognition is yet another milestone in Oak’s successful career, which includes an International Film Award for his first documentary Kachcha Limboo (2017). The film won the Best Feature Film in Marathi award at the 65th National Film Awards.