The Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Government of Maharashtra, has announced the winners of the Maharashtra Film Awards 2025, which aims to honor some of the biggest names in Indian cinema for their outstanding contributions to the industry.This year’s honorees include critically acclaimed actors, directors and filmmakers Prasad Oak will be awarded the prestigious Chitrapati V. Shantaram Special Contribution Award in recognition of his significant contribution to Marathi cinema. Over the years, Oke has emerged as one of the most versatile and accomplished artistes in the Marathi film industry, winning critical acclaim for his acting and directing work. The honor recognizes his lasting contribution to cinema and his commitment to telling meaningful stories.The government also announced that Pt. Hridaynath Mangeshkar will receive the Chitrapati V. Shantaram Jeevan Gaurav Puraskar Award, while senior screenwriter Salim Khan Will be awarded the Raj Kapoor Jeevan Gaurav Puraskar Medal. critically acclaimed actress Rani Mukherjee Won the Raj Kapoor Special Contribution Award.Prasad Oak expressed his gratitude after winning the award, saying, “I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the jury members of the Department of Cultural Affairs, Government of Maharashtra, for bestowing this incredible honour. I grew up watching the work of V. Santaram Ji and learned from his extraordinary contribution to Indian cinema. Receiving an award in his name is indeed a moment of immense pride and joy for me.”“He added: “I am deeply grateful to all the directors, producers and collaborators who have believed in me and given me the opportunity to grow as an artist. I am also sincerely grateful to the audience for their love and encouragement, which is what drives me forward. I dedicate this honor to my family who have supported me every step of the way. This recognition motivates me to continue working with the same passion and sincerity.“This recognition marks yet another milestone in Oke’s illustrious career, which includes winning the National Film Award for his directorial debut Kachcha Limboo (2017). The film won the Best Marathi Feature Film Award at the 65th National Film Awards.