Two years ago, on September 7, 2023, Indian cinema witnessed the release of "Jawan," a high-octane action entertainer that not only shattered box office records but also resonated deeply with audiences. Directed by Atlee, produced by Gauri Khan and co-produced by Gaurav Verma under Red Chillies Entertainment, the film stars Shah Rukh Khan in a dual role, alongside Nayanthara and Vijay Sethupathi. "Jawan" quickly became a cultural phenomenon, and two years later, its impact is still felt.

"Jawan" tells the story of Azad (Shah Rukh Khan), a jailer with a vigilante streak, who recruits inmates to expose and combat corruption in India. The film masterfully blends action, emotion, and social commentary, addressing issues such as farmer suicides, faulty weaponry, and inadequate healthcare. This potent combination struck a chord with viewers, making "Jawan" more than just an action flick.

The film's success can be attributed to several factors, starting with Shah Rukh Khan's stellar performance in dual roles. He portrays both a soldier-turned-protective father and a determined jailer with remarkable versatility. The strong female characters, played by Nayanthara, Deepika Padukone, and others, also contributed significantly to the film's appeal. They weren't merely supporting characters but integral to the narrative, showcasing strength and resilience.

Atlee's direction was another key ingredient in "Jawan's" success. He brought his signature "more is more" approach, packing the film with heroic protagonists, intense action, grand song sequences, and lavish scale. The film is replete with twists and turns, meta references and pop culture homages. Despite its nearly three-hour runtime, "Jawan" keeps audiences engaged with its fast-paced narrative and impactful dialogue.

"Jawan" was released in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu, and garnered acclaim for its performances, direction, action sequences, musical score, story, and cinematography. Anirudh Ravichander’s music was a major highlight, with songs like "Zinda Banda" and "Chaleya" becoming instant hits. The film also made waves internationally, premiering on over 10,000 screens worldwide. It is also the first Indian film to release in Bangladesh on the same day as its worldwide release.

The film's success wasn't limited to the box office. "Jawan" sparked a viral dance craze, with fans recreating the film's iconic steps. The internet was flooded with fan art, showcasing the film's memorable scenes and characters. The film also prompted discussions about democracy and social responsibility, with Shah Rukh Khan's character urging viewers to be better citizens.

In a career spanning over three decades, Shah Rukh Khan has received his first National Film Award for Best Actor for his performance in 'Jawan'. He shared the award with Vikrant Massey. The award is a testament to his enduring appeal and his ability to connect with audiences across generations.

"Jawan" grossed over ₹1,148.32 crore, becoming the highest-grossing Indian film of 2023, the second-highest-grossing Hindi film, and the sixth-highest-grossing Indian film. The film cemented Shah Rukh Khan's status as the "King of Bollywood" and proved that he remains a force to be reckoned with. As "Jawan" celebrates its 2nd anniversary, its legacy as a game-changing action entertainer continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.