Shah Rukh Khan Bags First National Film Award for Blockbuster Jawan

New Delhi, August 1, 2025 – Bollywood’s reigning superstar, Shah Rukh Khan, has finally clinched the coveted National Film Award for Best Actor for his dynamic performance in the 2023 action-packed hit Jawan. Announced at the 71st National Film Awards press conference at the National Media Centre in New Delhi, this marks Khan’s first National Award in a remarkable 33-year career. He shares the honor with Vikrant Massey, celebrated for his moving role in 12th Fail. The awards, recognizing films certified in 2023, will be presented at a ceremony later this year.

A Historic Win for the Badshah of Bollywood

Known as the ‘King of Bollywood,’ Shah Rukh Khan has captivated audiences worldwide with his charm, versatility, and unmatched screen presence. From his breakthrough in Deewana (1992) to iconic roles in Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995), Chak De! India (2007), and My Name Is Khan (2010), Khan has amassed 15 Filmfare Awards, the Padma Shri (2005), and global honors like France’s Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (2007) and Legion of Honour (2014). Yet, the National Film Award remained elusive until Jawan. Fans and industry insiders have called this win a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy.

In Jawan, directed by Atlee in his Bollywood debut, Khan delivers a powerhouse performance in dual roles as Azad Rathore, a vigilante jailer, and his father, Vikram Rathore. Produced by Gauri Khan and Gaurav Verma under Red Chillies Entertainment, the film blends high-octane action with themes of social justice, grossing over ₹1100 crore globally to become Khan’s biggest commercial success. The movie also won a National Award for Best Female Playback Singer for Shilpa Rao’s chart-topping Chaleya, composed by Anirudh Ravichander. Khan’s ability to balance intensity and emotional depth in Jawan cemented its status as a cinematic triumph.

Sharing the Spotlight with Vikrant Massey

Vikrant Massey, co-winner of the Best Actor award, was recognized for his inspiring performance as IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma in 12th Fail. Directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, the biographical drama, adapted from Anurag Pathak’s novel, traces Sharma’s journey from hardship to UPSC success. The film, a sleeper hit that earned nearly ₹60 crore worldwide, also won Best Feature Film at the awards. Massey’s raw and heartfelt portrayal resonated deeply, making this a well-deserved shared victory with Khan.

71st National Film Awards: A Celebration of Indian Cinema

The 71st National Film Awards, announced on August 1, 2025, showcased the richness of Indian filmmaking. Rani Mukerji secured Best Actress for her gripping role in Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway, her first National Award. Sam Bahadur, led by Vicky Kaushal, dominated with awards for Best Makeup, Best Costume Design, and Best Feature Film Promoting National, Social, and Environmental Values. Other winners included The Kerala Story for Best Direction (Sudipto Sen) and Best Cinematography, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment, and Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery for Best Hindi Film.

A Journey of Grit and Glory

Shah Rukh Khan’s path to this accolade reflects his resilience and reinvention. From redefining romance in Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge to portraying complex characters in Baazigar, Darr, and Swades, Khan has consistently pushed boundaries. His 2023 comeback with Pathaan, Jawan, and Dunki drew over 70 million viewers in India, raking in ₹1300 crore domestically and ₹2500 crore globally. Despite recent physical challenges, including a muscle tear while shooting his upcoming film King, Khan’s passion for cinema remains unshaken.

Fans and Industry Celebrate

The announcement of Khan’s win ignited a wave of excitement online. “SRK’s first National Award for Jawan! Absolutely iconic,” one fan posted on X, while another wrote, “Vikrant and Shah Rukh sharing this is pure gold.” The jury, led by Ashutosh Gowariker—director of Khan’s acclaimed Swades—added a special layer of significance to the win, delighting fans.

What’s Next for Shah Rukh Khan?

As Khan celebrates this milestone, he’s already preparing for his next venture, King, rumored to feature his daughter, Suhana Khan. While details are scarce, the project has generated buzz as another potential game-changer. For now, the National Award for Jawan stands as a testament to Khan’s unparalleled contribution to Indian cinema, solidifying his status as both a superstar and a stellar actor.

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