Shah Rukh Khan has won the National Film Award for the first time in his 33-year career. Having acted in some powerful films over the years including, Chak De! India (2007), My Name Is Khan (2010) and Fan (2016), among others, the superstar won the award for Atlee’s actioner, Jawan. Some years back, Shah Rukh had said at an event that he should have won the award earlier for Swades, which he lost to Saif Ali Khan for Hum Tum in the year 2005.
Some years ago, at an event, Shah Rukh was on stage with Hum Tum director Kunal Kohli and actor Mandira Bedi. When asked of his favorite films by Kunal, Shah Rukh replied, “I am good by heart. I like all films, all heroes, and all heroines. I am a simple-minded person; I like everything, including your films. I have loved them all."
Addressing Kunal, he added, “Fanaa was very good. I think Hum Tum was very nice. His actor won the National Award for Hum Tum when I think I should have got it, but that's another story.” He is seen laughing along with Kunal later.
At the 71st National Film Award Shah Rukh shared the honour for Best Actor in a Leading Role with Vikrant Massey as Rani Mukerji won the award for Best Actress in a Leading Role. Ashutosh Gowariker, director of Swades, headed the Jury for Feature Films for the awards.
After receiving the award, Shah Rukh said, “A national award is not just about achievement. It's a reminder that what I do matters. It tells me to keep going, keep working hard, keep creating and keep serving cinema. In a world full of noise to be heard, truly heard, is a blessing. And I promise to use this recognition, not as a finish line, but as fuel to continue striving, learning and giving back. This award is a reminder for me that acting is not just work but a responsibility, to show the truth on the screen. I am grateful for all the love.”