MUMBAI:Actor Kabir Bedi was knighted by the Italian Government for his outstanding contribution to Italian cinema. The ceremony and celebrations were hosted by the Consul General of Italy (Mumbai), Giampaolo and his wife Elisabetta Cuttillo.

The Italian Order Al Merito Della Repubblica is knighting Bedi, bestowing on him the prestigious honor of Cavaliere (Knight) of the Italiana. The Ordine al Merito Della Repubblica Italiana, instituted in 1951, is the highest ranking civilian honor of the Italian Republic.

Bedi said, "I accept this knighthood with great joy and deep gratitude, it’s a symbol of all the love that Italy has given me. It is the greatest honor I have ever received"

All the Bedi family along with friends and well wishers were present at the ceremony.