Bollywood Awards 1999 - "Outstanding Humanitarian Award’
“Although Michael comes from a young American tradition he is the rebirth of an old Indian soul. His actions are expressions of the ‘Philosophy Weda’, which calls for working for people not for own interests.”
Introduction
"Thank you very much. Thank you very much for this honour you’ve awarded me tonight. I have always believed that the real measure of celebrity-success was not just how famous he becomes but what he does with that fame and fortune. Especially in todays technological and media advanced society the attention and fortune shower on an individual celebrity is often times immensely disproportioned to his or her achievements.
Today a person can literally become a celebrity over night throughout the entire world, and that kind of attention can be difficult for an individual to handle. But I have also learned that such fame can also be an enourmous effective medium to focus attention and mobilise resourses for a worthy cause.
I have been blessed with so much and have an opportunity to do what few others can. But I believe it is more than just an opportunity but a duty. I feel to reap and enjoy the fruits of my talents for myself would be selfish, irresponsible and unconscionable. In these days of such abundance and advancement — and what we can do — it pains me to think that we do so little for our children.
In some ways I feel undeserving to recieve an award for something that is my duty. I accept this award at the guesture of encouraging from the people of India and the commission to do more for mankind. I love you very much.
[…]
Mahatma Gandhi knew how important bringing the world attention was to gaining freedom for India without using any weapons. In some ways he was the first person to truly understand the importance and power of the public. He has always been an inspiration to me and it gives me even greater joy and pride to be recognized by his people. I am here today inspiration for my Hinduja — Mr. Hinduja and your lovely family, I love you very much. We have the same mission to bring world peace. Kamoud Mandhona has created a great show, Manesh thank you for your wonderful costume. I appreciate it very much. I love you all, thank you."
