The first Filmfare Award ceremony was held on March 21st, 1954. One of Hollywood’s most popular stars, Gregory Peck, was invited as the guest of honour. The event had been organised at Metro Theatre in Mumbai. However, due to a flight delay from Colombo, he could not make it to the event. But, he later attended the banquet that was arranged at the Willingdon Sports Club.

Filmfare was not the first name that had come up for the Awards. It was earlier supposed to be called, The Clares Awards after the Times of India film critic - Clare Mendonca. She has been called 'One of the earliest film journalists in India'. Only 5 awards were presented in the first ceremony in 1954. The categories were - Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actor (Female), and Best Music Director.

Source: FILMFARE