Published by Aloto Naga | August 1, 2025
Shah Rukh Khan, widely celebrated as the “King of Bollywood,” has finally secured his first National Film Award for Best Actor, three decades after his debut in Indian cinema. The recognition, announced during the 71st National Film Awards, was awarded for his impactful performance in the 2023 hit film “Jawan.” The honor not only marks a personal high but also underscores his continued relevance and excellence in Indian cinema.
A 33-Year Wait Ends with ‘Jawan’
From his debut in 1992’s Deewana to a legacy that includes Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Swades, My Name is Khan, and Chak De! India, Shah Rukh Khan has long been a household name. Despite global fame and countless popular awards, the National Film Award for Best Actor had remained out of reach—until now.
With Jawan, Khan took on a dual role as a vigilante and soldier, blending intense action with strong emotional layers. Directed by Atlee, the film became a critical and commercial hit, and Khan’s performance resonated not just with the masses but with the national jury, earning him this long-overdue recognition.
In an interesting twist, Khan shares this year’s Best Actor award with Vikrant Massey, honored for his compelling role in 12th Fail, reflecting a year of outstanding performances across genres.
A Viral Speech Full of Emotion
Following the announcement, Khan’s acceptance speech struck a deep emotional chord online and quickly went viral. In Hindi, with his signature blend of gratitude and charm, he said:
“Shukriya sari jury member ka jinhone mujhko best actor ke liye layak samjha… Mujhe bhaut khushi hai. Mujhe awards bhaut ache lagte hai, main thoda laalchi hu, greedy hu.”
(Thank you to all jury members who found me worthy of this award… I am very happy. I really like awards—I’m a bit greedy.)
He continued by acknowledging the team behind Jawan—including director Atlee, co-stars Nayanthara and Vijay Sethupathi, and music composer Anirudh Ravichander—and promised to continue entertaining both Indian and global audiences for as long as he can:
“Whether it takes me to romance, to fall, to fly, to be good or bad… Inshallah, I’ll keep working hard.”
Internet Reacts: “Long Overdue”
Moments after the news broke, social media exploded with reactions. The hashtag #SRKNationalAward began trending, with fans sharing nostalgic clips from his earlier films and celebrating the long-awaited national honor. Many described the award as “long overdue”, recalling performances from the 90s and 2000s that, in public memory, were equally deserving.
Fellow awardees including Rani Mukerji, who won Best Actress for Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway, and Vikrant Massey, expressed heartfelt congratulations.
Industry Veterans Join In
The film fraternity rallied in support of Khan’s win. Director Farah Khan, one of his close collaborators, shared a touching tribute, praising his years of “shiddat” (dedication) and consistency. Actors, producers, and crew members alike called it a “victory for hard work and humility.”
A New Peak in a Decorated Career
Though he already holds the Padma Shri, France’s Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, and the Legion of Honour, this National Film Award stands out—not just for the prestige, but for the journey it represents.
This win also repositions Khan not just as a superstar but as a respected actor whose craft continues to evolve, even three decades into his career.
