After a career spanning 33 years, Shah Rukh Khan has won his first National Film Award for his performance in the 2023 film Jawan. The 71st National Film Awards, which were announced at a press conference in New Delhi, recognized films certified between January 1 and December 31, 2023. Khan shares the Best Actor award with Vikrant Massey, who won for his performance in 12th Fail. Rani Mukerji won Best Actress for Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway.
Khan expressed his gratitude in a video message on social media, thanking the jury, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, his directors, writers, team, family, and fans. He acknowledged his Jawan director, Atlee, and said the award felt like a "mass" moment, referencing a term Atlee often uses. He also thanked Raju Hirani and Sidharth Anand, likely referencing his work in Dunki and Pathaan, respectively.
The National Award, according to Khan, is more than just an achievement; it is a reminder that his work matters and inspires him to keep creating and serving cinema. He promised to use the recognition as motivation to continue striving, learning, and giving back to the film industry.
Fans and celebrities alike have celebrated Khan's win, with many feeling that this recognition was long overdue for his iconic roles. One X user wrote, "This is huge! Shah Rukh finally receiving his first National Award win". Another commented, "So so happy. Both SRK and Vikrant deserve it".
Khan made his Bollywood debut in 1992 with Deewana and has since starred in numerous hit films, building a global fanbase. In 2023, he appeared in Pathaan, Jawan, and Dunki. Jawan, directed by Atlee, features Khan in a double role alongside Nayanthara and Vijay Sethupathi, with a cameo by Deepika Padukone. The film follows a group determined to correct societal wrongs.
Khan's upcoming film, King, is generating considerable buzz. While earlier reports suggested Sujoy Ghosh as the director, it is now believed that Siddharth Anand will helm the project. King is expected to have high-octane action sequences and is slated for a theatrical release in 2026. The film will star Khan and his daughter Suhana Khan. King will mark Suhana Khan's theatrical debut. Some reports also suggest that Deepika Padukone may portray Suhana Khan's mother in the film.
