National Film Awards: SRK, Vikrant Massey receive Best Actor, as Rani Mukerji accepts Best Actress | WATCH

New Delhi:In a memorable ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, on Tuesday, Vikrant Massey and Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan jointly received the prestigious National Film Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role. Massey was honoured for his compelling portrayal of Manoj Kumar Sharma in the critically acclaimed film 12th Fail, a biographical drama chronicling Sharma’s challenging journey to becoming an IPS officer. Shah Rukh Khan won for his powerful dual role in the blockbuster action film Jawan. Both actors received their awards from President Droupadi Murmu.

Shah Rukh Khan’s First National Award Amid Cinematic Triumph

Shah Rukh Khan, often referred to as the "King of Bollywood," received his first National Film Award after more than three decades in the industry. His recent film Jawan not only became one of the year’s biggest box office successes but also showcased his action prowess and emotional depth, earning him critical and popular acclaim. SRK expressed his overwhelming gratitude to fans, family, and his dedicated team, highlighting the sacrifices and support they provided throughout his journey.

Currently, he is shooting for King, co-starring his daughter Suhana Khan and Deepika Padukone, his frequent collaborator with whom he shares acclaimed films like Om Shanti Om and Pathaan.

Vikrant Massey Dedicates Award to Marginalised Communities

In a heartfelt statement following the announcement in August, Vikrant dedicated the award to marginalised people who fight societal inequities daily. He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, NFDC, the jury, and director Vidhu Vinod Chopra, who gave him the opportunity. “Today, a 20-year-old boy’s dream has come true. I am eternally grateful to the audiences for honouring my performances with such love,” he said.

12th Fail (2023), a sleeper hit directed by Chopra, also won the Best Film award, shining a light on socio-economic challenges and determination through its gripping narrative supported by impactful performances, including that of Medha Shankr.

Rani Mukerji Bags Best Actress for ‘Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway’

Veteran actress Rani Mukerji was honoured with the National Award for Best Actress for her role in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway. The film, a poignant legal drama based on a true story, highlights the struggles of an Indian mother battling the Norwegian legal system over child custody. Mukerji’s nuanced performance was widely praised as a testament to her illustrious career spanning decades.

Other Notable Recognitions

• Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment went to Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, which also earned Best Choreography for Vaibhavi Merchant.
• Best Cinematography was awarded to the controversial The Kerala Story.
• Other films celebrated include Kathal (Best Hindi Film) and Sam Bahadur (Best Film promoting social values).

With inputs from ANI