The 71st National Film Awards turned into a landmark event for Bollywood as three of its finest actors—Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, and Vikrant Massey—were honoured for their outstanding performances. The ceremony, held at Vigyan Bhavan in Delhi, witnessed President Droupadi Murmu presenting the prestigious awards to the deserving winners.
Shah Rukh Khan’s First National Honour
After more than three decades of ruling the silver screen, Shah Rukh Khan finally clinched his first National Film Award. He was named Best Actor for his powerful role in Atlee’s blockbuster Jawan, released in September 2023. Dressed in a classic black suit, Shah Rukh expressed heartfelt gratitude to his fans, family, and team. Despite being overseas for the shoot of his upcoming film King, he returned to Delhi to attend this milestone occasion.
Rani Mukerji’s Emotional Triumph
Nearly 30 years into her career, Rani Mukerji experienced a defining moment as she received her first-ever National Film Award for Best Actress. Her moving performance in Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway struck a chord with both audiences and critics, showcasing her depth as an actor. For Rani, this honour stands as both recognition of her craft and an inspiration for many women in the industry.
Vikrant Massey’s Dedication to Real Stories
Vikrant Massey bagged the Best Actor award for his performance in 12th Fail, a film based on the inspiring journey of Manoj Kumar Sharma, who rose from hardships to become an IPS officer. In his acceptance, Vikrant dedicated the award to “all the marginalised people” battling socio-economic struggles daily. His achievement reflects his commitment to roles that mirror real-life challenges and bring untold stories to the forefront.
Why This Night Matters
This year’s National Film Awards not only recognised cinematic brilliance but also highlighted resilience, dedication, and the power of storytelling. The recognition of Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, and Vikrant Massey marks a generational bridge, showing how legends, seasoned actors, and rising stars can together shape the future of Indian cinema.
