Kabir Bedi Awarded Italy's 'The Order Of Merit', Pooja Bedi, Alaya F Attend Event; SEE PICS

At the private ceremony overlooking the Gateway of India in Mumbai international actor Kabir Bedi was awarded the “Order of Merit of the Italian Republic," the most senior Italian civilian award.

Kabir Bedi Awarded Italy's 'The Order Of Merit', Pooja Bedi, Alaya F Attend Event

After the formal ceremony, there was a special live musical performance by Niccolo Fabi which set off the celebrations perfectly.

Kabir gave a heartwarming speech thanking Italy and the Italian people for their enduring love over the years. He thanked his wife, children, and grandchildren for their presence and the joy they bring into his life.

This double honour, he said, was “a goose-bumps moment” for him. He recalled that his journey of being Sandokan began one hundred meters from where they were standing today, at the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. That’s where he met the director and Producer of the Sandokan series for the very first time. “Life has come full circle” Kabir said.

“This is a very emotional award for me,” Kabir said. “Being presented the Order of Merit, Italy’s highest honour, is the fulfillment of my life’s work in Italy. It’s even higher than Cavaliere (Knight), which they made me twelve years ago."

"It gives me great joy to see Prime Minister Meloni and Modi complimenting each other on the internet with #Melodi. Now it’s time for the great film industries of Italy and India to produce world-class films together.”

This award, the most prestigious Italian honorific one, ultimately recognizes his unconditional feeling and passionate dedication to Italy. (All Image Source: Special Arrangement.)