NEW DELHI: Veteran actor Anupam Kher has been honoured with the Kalidas Samman 2012 for his contribution to theatre.

Kalidas Samman is a prestigious arts award presented annually by the government of Madhya Pradesh. It was first awarded in 1980 and was initially conferred every alternate year in the fields of classical music, classical dance, theatre and plastic arts. From 1986-87 onwards, the awards were presented in all four fields every year.

Kher said he was delighted as this award adds yet another feather in his cap after completion of his Hollywood venture, Silver Linings playbook this year. He said film and theatre are two most important platforms for any act and both have their equal contribution in shaping the persona of an actor.

He added, "Being awarded the highest form of appreciation in theatre just reaffirms my faith in theatre, while empowering me with the right attitude to perform on an international level such asc alongside world famous professionals in the same field."