Shah Rukh Khan's recent National Film Award win for Best Actor for his performance in 'Jawan' at the 71st National Film Awards marked the end of a 33-year wait. However, a resurfaced video reveals that the actor felt he should have won the award much earlier for his performance in the 2004 film, 'Swades'.
In the video, taken from a Tag Heuer event in the late 2000s, Shah Rukh Khan is on stage with 'Hum Tum' director Kunal Kohli and anchor Mandira Bedi. When Kohli asked Khan about his favorite films, Shah Rukh responded in his characteristic witty style. He praised Kohli's 'Fanaa' and 'Hum Tum', before cheekily adding, "His actor won the National Award for 'Hum Tum' when I think I should have got it, but that's another story". The National Award that year was awarded to Saif Ali Khan for 'Hum Tum'.
'Swades', directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, featured Shah Rukh Khan as Mohan Bhargava, a NASA scientist who returns to India and seeks to bring reform to a village, which changes his outlook on life. The film, though not a box office success, was critically acclaimed, with many considering it to be one of Khan's finest performances. Fans and critics alike have often stated that Shah Rukh should have won the National Award for his grounded and nuanced portrayal in 'Swades'.
The resurfaced video has sparked considerable reaction online, with many fans agreeing with Shah Rukh's sentiment. Some fans commented that Saif Ali Khan should have won the award for 'Omkara' instead of 'Hum Tum'. One fan explained that TS Nagabharana, who was on the jury that year, had openly questioned the integrity of 'Swades'.
Shah Rukh Khan finally received the National Film Award for his performance in 'Jawan'. The film, directed by Atlee, features Shah Rukh in dual roles. Expressing his gratitude, Shah Rukh said, "The National Award is not just about achievement... This award is a reminder that acting is not just work but a responsibility to show truth on the screen". He shared the award with Vikrant Massey, who was honored for his work in '12th Fail'.
