Shah Rukh Khan Secures First National Film Award for Best Actor in ‘Jawan’

New Delhi, August 1, 2025 – Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan has finally clinched his first-ever National Film Award for Best Actor for his electrifying performance in the 2023 blockbuster Jawan. The announcement, made at the 71st National Film Awards press conference at the National Media Centre in New Delhi, marks a historic milestone in Khan’s illustrious 33-year career. He shares the prestigious honor with Vikrant Massey, who was recognized for his compelling portrayal in 12th Fail. The awards, which celebrate films certified in 2023, highlight the diverse and vibrant contributions to Indian cinema, with the official ceremony scheduled for later this year.

A Monumental Achievement for the King of Bollywood

Shah Rukh Khan, fondly known as the ‘King of Bollywood’ and ‘Badshah of Bollywood,’ has long been a global ambassador for Indian cinema. With a career that began with his debut in Deewana (1992), Khan has delivered iconic performances in films like Baazigar (1993), Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995), Chak De! India (2007), and My Name Is Khan (2010). Despite earning 15 Filmfare Awards, the Padma Shri in 2005, and international honors like France’s Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (2007) and Legion of Honour (2014), a National Film Award had eluded him—until now. Fans and critics alike have hailed this win as a long-overdue recognition of his acting prowess.

In Jawan, directed by Atlee in his Hindi cinema debut, Shah Rukh Khan plays dual roles as Azad Rathore, a vigilante jailer, and Vikram Rathore, his father. The action-thriller, produced by Gauri Khan and Gaurav Verma under Red Chillies Entertainment, tackles themes of systemic corruption and social justice while delivering high-octane action and emotional depth. The film, featuring a stellar cast including Nayanthara, Vijay Sethupathi, Priyamani, Sanya Malhotra, and a special appearance by Deepika Padukone, grossed over ₹1100 crore worldwide, becoming the biggest hit of Khan’s career.

The film also earned a National Award for Best Female Playback Singer for Shilpa Rao’s soulful rendition of Chaleya, composed by Anirudh Ravichander. Khan’s layered performance, balancing vulnerability, authority, and charisma, resonated with audiences and critics, making Jawan not just a commercial juggernaut but a cultural phenomenon.

A Shared Honor with Vikrant Massey

Sharing the Best Actor award with Khan is Vikrant Massey, whose heartfelt portrayal of IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma in 12th Fail earned widespread acclaim. Directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, the biographical drama, based on Anurag Pathak’s novel, chronicles Sharma’s journey from poverty to cracking the UPSC exam. The film, a word-of-mouth hit, grossed nearly ₹60 crore worldwide and was named Best Feature Film at the 71st National Film Awards. Massey, in an earlier interview, expressed his lifelong dream of receiving this honor, making this a significant moment for the rising star.

Other Highlights of the 71st National Film Awards

The 71st National Film Awards, announced on August 1, 2025, celebrated a wide array of cinematic achievements. Rani Mukerji won Best Actress for her emotional performance in Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway, marking her first National Award as well. Sam Bahadur, starring Vicky Kaushal, secured the most awards, including Best Makeup, Best Costume Design, and Best Feature Film Promoting National, Social, and Environmental Values. Other notable 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 Career of Resilience and Reinvention

Shah Rukh Khan’s journey to this accolade is a testament to his resilience and versatility. From redefining the anti-hero in Baazigar and Darr to embodying the romantic lead in Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and the determined coach in Chak De! India, Khan has consistently reinvented himself. His 2023 comeback with Pathaan, Jawan, and Dunki entertained over 70 million viewers in India, amassing ₹1300 crore domestically and ₹2500 crore globally, solidifying his box-office dominance. Despite facing physical challenges, including a recent muscle tear during the shoot of his upcoming film King, Khan’s dedication to his craft remains unwavering.

Fan Frenzy and Industry Acclaim

The announcement of Khan’s win sparked a celebratory frenzy online, with fans taking to social media to express their joy. “This is huge! Shah Rukh finally receiving his first National Award win,” one user wrote on X, while another commented, “So so happy. Both SRK and Vikrant deserve it.” The fact that the jury was headed by Ashutosh Gowariker, director of Khan’s critically acclaimed Swades, added a poetic note to the victory.

Looking Ahead

As Shah Rukh Khan basks in this milestone, he is gearing up for his next project, King, where he is expected to share the screen with his daughter, Suhana Khan. While details remain under wraps, anticipation is high for what promises to be another landmark in his career. For now, the National Award for Jawan stands as a crowning achievement, affirming Khan’s legacy as not just a superstar but one of Indian cinema’s finest actors.

For the latest updates on Bollywood and global Indian cinema, stay tuned to www.nriglobe.com.

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