Shah Rukh Khan wins first national award for Jawan, calls it a reminder that his work matters

Shah Rukh Khan has won his first-ever National Film Award, earning Best Actor for his performance in Jawan at the 71st National Film Awards.

The Bollywood actor, who has been part of the film industry for over 30 years, shared the honor with Vikrant Massey, who was recognized for his role in 12th Fail. The awards were announced on Aug 1 by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

In an Instagram video released after the announcement, Khan appeared with his arm in a sling due to an injury sustained while filming his upcoming movie King.

Despite the injury, he described the recognition as deeply meaningful, saying the award is “a reminder that what I do matters” and adding that he sees it not as a conclusion but as “fuel to continue striving, learning, and giving back.”

Khan thanked the award jury, the ministry, and his collaborators, including director Atlee, who helmed Jawan. The film, released in 2023, was both a commercial success and a critical favorite, with Khan portraying dual roles.

The actor also acknowledged fans, saying their support has made his career possible.

Vikrant Massey was honored for his performance in 12th Fail, where he played an aspiring IPS officer. The film also won Best Feature Film, further cementing its place among the most acclaimed movies of the year.

Industry colleagues congratulated Khan for the milestone. Composer AR Rahman and Jawan co-star Ridhi Dogra praised his win, while filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker, chairperson of the feature film jury, called the award “historic,” noting that Khan’s earlier acclaimed performances, such as in Swades, had not previously been recognized at the National Awards.

Other winners included Animal, Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery, and Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway, featuring Rani Mukerji. The ceremony highlighted what many industry experts described as one of Bollywood’s strongest years in balancing mainstream success and critical acclaim.

For Khan, the award marks a significant professional milestone after decades of box office dominance but limited recognition at the National Film Awards.

He concluded his message by promising to “use this recognition not as a finish line but as inspiration to keep creating work that resonates.”