The 71st National Film Awards ceremony, held on September 23, 2025, at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, marked a significant moment in Indian cinema, with President Droupadi Murmu presenting the honors. Among the attendees was Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, who received his first-ever National Film Award after a celebrated career spanning over three decades. Khan was awarded Best Actor for his dual role performance in the blockbuster film 'Jawan'.
Despite his hectic schedule filming for Siddharth Anand's upcoming movie, 'KING', in Poland, Shah Rukh Khan made time to attend the ceremony. His dedication underscores the importance of the National Film Awards and the recognition it bestows upon artists in the Indian film industry. Pictures of the actor arriving at the event have already gone viral.
The 71st National Film Awards recognized talent across the Indian film industry. Shah Rukh Khan shared the Best Actor award with Vikrant Massey, who was recognized for his role in '12th Fail'. Due to the shared win, the cash prize of ₹2 lakh will be split between the two actors, with each receiving ₹1 lakh along with a medal and certificate. Veteran Malayalam actor Mohanlal was honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the highest honor in Indian cinema.
Shah Rukh Khan's journey in Bollywood began in the late 1980s with television appearances, followed by his Hindi film debut in 1992 with 'Deewana'. He gained recognition for his villainous roles in 'Baazigar' (1993) and 'Darr' (1993). His career then soared with a series of successful romantic films like 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge' (1995), 'Dil To Pagal Hai' (1997), and 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai' (1998). Over the years, he has received numerous accolades, including 15 Filmfare Awards. The Government of India has honored him with the Padma Shri, and the Government of France has bestowed upon him the Order of Arts and Letters and the Legion of Honour.
In a video message to his fans, Shah Rukh Khan expressed the significance of the National Award, stating, "A national award is not just about achievement. It's a reminder that what I do matters". He emphasized that this recognition motivates him to continue striving in his career.
Gauri Khan and Suhana Khan celebrated Shah Rukh Khan's National Award win. Gauri Khan praised Shah Rukh, Rani Mukerji, and Karan Johar for their respective wins, acknowledging their talent and goodness. Suhana Khan shared an old photograph on social media, expressing her pride in her father's storytelling abilities.
The 71st National Film Awards not only celebrated the best of Indian cinema from 2023 but also marked a special moment for Shah Rukh Khan, acknowledging his contributions and solidifying his place as one of the leading figures in Indian cinema.
