MUMBAI – Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan has won his first-ever National Film Award after 33 years in the industry. He received the Best Actor award at the 71st National Film Awards for his acclaimed performance in the 2023 blockbuster Jawan.
The recognition comes after decades of delivering memorable roles in critically praised films like Swades, Chak De! India, and My Name Is Khan, none of which previously earned him India’s highest cinematic honor. The win is being celebrated across the country as a long-overdue tribute to the King of Bollywood.
Shah Rukh Khan shared the Best Actor title with Vikrant Massey, who was honored for his role in 12th Fail. The award ceremony was filled with emotional moments, especially when Ashutosh Gowariker — the director of Swades — presented the award to Khan.
In a heartfelt video message, Shah Rukh Khan, wearing a sling due to a recent injury, thanked his fans, family, and the film’s team, saying this win was “special” and “worth the wait.”
The film Jawan, directed by Atlee, showcased Khan in a dual role and was both a commercial success and a critical favorite, noted for blending action, emotion, and social themes.
The award also marks a shift in the National Film Awards’ recognition of mainstream cinema and genre-blending films with strong messaging.
