Yesterday turned out to be big day for Indian cinema when Waheeda Rehman, Kamal Haasan and Susan Sarandon came on stage to inaugurate the 44th International Film Festival of India (IFFI). Soon after the lighting of the inaugural lamp, the Oscar winner Sarandon started by praising India's contribution to the art of filmmaking. "I am so happy to come here and am looking forward to being a part of the festival. I am ashamed that being an American I have only watched Hollywood films. India has produced so many good and rich films and am looking forward to watching them here at the festival," she exclaimed. Soon after her speech, veteran Rehman was conferred the Centenary Award for the Film Personality of the Year that was instituted this year to commemorate the 100 years celebration of Indian cinema. The 77-year-old actress received a standing ovation as she was felicitated on-stage by Bollywood star Rani Mukerji in recognition of her unparalleled contribution to Indian cinema. Rehman, who is known for her memorable performance in films like Pyaasa, Guide Teesri Kasam and Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam, was awarded with a citation, a certificate, a medal (silver peacock), a shawl and a cash prize of Rs 10 lakh. Receiving the award, the 77-year-old observed, "I am really humbled to receive such a great honour. I would like to thank the jury who suggested my name. I would like to thank all the people who I have worked with so far. My directors, producers, make-up artistes, technicians. Thank you for a wonderful journey.” Other stars attending the festival included Rekha, Jackie Shroff, Alia Bhatt, Huma Qureshi, Asha Bhosle and Prem Chopra. All those in attendance congratulated the Kagaz Ke Phool actress for her long innings in cinema. Averred Asha Bhonsle, who has sung for Rehman in several films, "I am extremely happy for Waheedaji. She deserves it." Recalling the olden days the reputed crooner said that 'Bhawra bada nadan hain' from Sahib, Bibi Aur Ghulam was her favourite song by her picturised on the veteran actress. Bhaag Milkh Bhaag fame Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra who worked with the veteran actress in two films like Rang De Basanti and Delhi 6 said, "On my ten best films list, more than half are those that star Waheedaji. I had the opportunity to work with her twice and I am so happy that she is receiving the honour." Averred Prem Chopra, "We have worked together several times and the last film we did together was Delhi 6. I am happy for her. She is such an artiste who will be remembered all life long." Huma Qureshi and Alia Bhatt also congratulated the veteran actress.