Italy honors Kabir Bedi with 'the Order Of Merit'; Pooja Bedi and Alaya F grace the event

Veteran actor Kabir Bedi was honored with the ‘Order of Merit of the Italian Republic,’ Italy's highest civilian award, in a private ceremony in Mumbai on December 10. Joining him at the event were his daughter Pooja Bedi, granddaughter Alaya F, and wife Parveen Dusanj.

Sharing a series of pictures from the event, the actor said that being presented with the award is the fulfillment of his life’s work in Italy. He said it is even higher than Cavaliere (Knight), which they made him twelve years ago.

“My journey of becoming Sandokan began one hundred meters from where we were standing, at the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. That’s where I had met the director and Producer of the “Sandokan” series for the very first time. Life has come full circle.

The Scroll of Honour was signed by President Mattarella and counter-signed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and read aloud by Consul General Alessandro de Masi, who added:

“Kabir keeps on playing, decade after decade, an extraordinary role in promoting better relations between India and Italy. His popularity is widespread across all generations in Italy. This is the reason why the President of the Republic of Italy has decided to present him one of Italy’s highest decorations, The Order of Merit. Kabir is very special for all of us Italians.”

The Ambassador of Italy, Vicenzo De Luca messaged: “Kabir is not only a great promoter and a profound admirer of Italy, in India and around the several countries where he is known. Kabir is a sincere friend of Italy, strongly bonded to it. This award, the most prestigious Italian honorific one, ultimately recognizes his unconditional feeling and passionate dedication to Italy,” he shared.

Bedi added that it gives him great joy to see Italian Prime Minister Meloni and Modi complimenting each other on the internet with #Melodi. He concluded by saying that it’s time for the great film industries of Italy and India to produce world-class films together.

Following the official proceedings, a captivating live musical performance by Niccolo Fabi added a perfect touch to the celebrations.

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