The 71st National Film Awards ceremony in Delhi on September 23, 2025, was a particularly joyous occasion for long-time friends Rani Mukerji and Vaibhavi Merchant, who both received prestigious awards. Rani Mukerji won the Best Actress Award for her powerful performance in "Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway", while Vaibhavi Merchant was honored with the Best Choreography award for the vibrant song "Dhindhora Baje Re" from Karan Johar's film "Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani".

The bond between Rani and Vaibhavi was evident throughout the ceremony. As Vaibhavi Merchant took the stage at Vigyan Bhawan to receive her award from President Droupadi Murmu, Rani Mukerji, beaming with pride, captured the special moment on her phone. This heartwarming gesture highlighted their long-standing friendship and mutual support.

Vaibhavi Merchant expressed her gratitude in an Instagram post, acknowledging the significance of the honor. "Today is an extremely special day. As an artist, there is no greater honour than being recognised by the government - when they value and celebrate your art," she wrote. She also thanked Karan Johar for the opportunity to choreograph "Dhindhora Baje Re". This National Award marks Vaibhavi's second win, her first being for "Dholi Taro Dhol Baaje" in the 1999 film "Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam".

Rani Mukerji's win for "Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway" was also a significant moment. Her portrayal in the film resonated deeply with audiences, earning her critical acclaim and now, the National Award for Best Actress.

The 71st National Film Awards ceremony also saw other notable figures from the Indian film industry being honored. Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey shared the Best Actor award for their performances in "Jawan" and "12th Fail," respectively. Karan Johar's "Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani" won the Best Feature Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. The Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the highest film award in India, was conferred on Mohanlal.