Shah Rukh Khan is reportedly pausing the shooting of his upcoming film "King" in Poland to return to India to attend the 71st National Film Awards ceremony in New Delhi on September 23, 2025. He will be honored with the National Film Award for Best Actor for his performance in the 2023 action drama "Jawan". This marks the first time in his illustrious 33-year career that Khan has received this prestigious award. He will share the award with Vikrant Massey, who was recognized for his performance in "12th Fail".
The 71st National Film Awards ceremony promises to be a star-studded event, with President Droupadi Murmu presenting the awards. Alongside Shah Rukh Khan, other notable winners expected to attend include Rani Mukerji, who won Best Actress for her role in "Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway," and Vidhu Vinod Chopra, whose film "12th Fail" was adjudged Best Feature Film. Sudipto Sen will also be present to receive the Best Director Award for "The Kerala Story".
Khan's win for "Jawan" has been widely celebrated by fans and the film industry. In the film, he plays dual roles as Captain Vikram Rathore, an army commando, and Azad, his son, a jailer who recruits women prisoners for a vigilante team unmasking corruption in India. Directed by Tamil director Atlee in his Hindi debut, the film also features Deepika Padukone in a special appearance. This award recognizes Khan's successful shift towards the action genre in recent years, following the success of films like "Pathaan".
Meanwhile, production for "King," an action thriller directed by Siddharth Anand, is currently underway. The film is anticipated to be released in late 2026 or early 2027. Recent reports indicate that the film's set has moved to Warsaw, Poland, where Shah Rukh Khan has been filming alongside Arshad Warsi. Leaked pictures and videos from the set have generated excitement among fans, hinting at a "Godfather"-level intensity. The film also marks the first on-screen collaboration between Shah Rukh Khan and his daughter Suhana Khan. The cast includes Jaideep Ahlawat, Saurabh Shukla, Jackie Shroff, Abhishek Bachchan, Abhay Verma, and Raghav Juyal. Deepika Padukone, Rani Mukerji, and Anil Kapoor have reportedly been approached for cameo appearances.
However, production has faced some hurdles due to an injury Khan sustained on set. He reportedly suffered a muscle injury while shooting an intense action sequence in Mumbai and was rushed to the USA for treatment. This injury has led to a pause in the shooting schedule, and the film's release may be postponed to 2027. Despite the injury, Khan remains dedicated to his work and expressed his gratitude for the National Award, stating that "one hand is enough" to win it.
Shah Rukh Khan's journey in Bollywood has been marked by numerous accolades, including 15 Filmfare Awards, Screen Awards, Zee Cine Awards, and IIFA Awards. He has also received state honors such as the Padma Shri from the Government of India in 2005, and the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres and the Legion of Honour from France. The National Award for Best Actor is a significant addition to his already impressive collection, solidifying his position as one of India's most celebrated actors.