On August 1, 2025, the 71st National Film Awards were announced, and Bollywood witnessed a historic moment. Shah Rukh Khan won the Best Actor award for his blockbuster “Jawan”, while Vikrant Massey earned the same for the inspiring “12th Fail”. This was the first National Award for both stars, sparking a wave of excitement among fans and the film industry. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of these awards, the social impact of both films, and what fans are saying.
What Are the 71st National Film Awards?
The National Film Awards are India’s most prestigious honors for cinema. Organized by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, they celebrate excellence in acting, direction, storytelling, and technical aspects like cinematography and sound. The 71st edition, announced on August 1, 2025, in New Delhi, recognized films released in 2023.
Key Highlights:
- Date of Announcement of 71st National Film Awards: August 1, 2025
- Location of 71st National Film Awards: National Media Centre, New Delhi
- Significance: These awards showcase the diversity of Indian cinema, honoring films from various languages and regions.
- Major Winners in 71st National Film Awards:
- Best Feature Film: 12th Fail
- Best Actor: Shah Rukh Khan (Jawan) and Vikrant Massey (12th Fail)
- Best Actress: Rani Mukerji
Shah Rukh Khan’s First National Award Win
Shah Rukh Khan, fondly called the “King of Bollywood”, won his first National Award after a 33-year career for his role in “Jawan”. This victory was a landmark moment for both him and his fans.
Why This Win Matters
Shah Rukh began his Bollywood journey in 1992 with “Deewana”. From blockbusters like “Baazigar”, “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge”, and “Swades”, he became a global superstar, bagging 14 Filmfare Awards. Yet, a National Award remained elusive until “Jawan”. His dual role in the film proved he’s not just a romantic hero but a versatile actor.
Fans and Industry Reactions
Social media erupted with #KingSRK trending. A fan tweeted, “Shah Rukh deserved this years ago!” Kajol posted on Instagram, “You’ve made us proud, SRK!” Anil Kapoor called him a “true superstar,” while director Farah Khan tweeted, “This win is for every dreamer.”
What Made “Jawan” Special?
In “Jawan”, Shah Rukh played a soldier and his son, both fighting corruption and societal injustice. The film blended action, drama, and patriotism, earning over ₹1100 crore worldwide. It also sparked conversations about the need for systemic change.
Tip: If you haven’t watched “Jawan” yet, it’s a must-see for its action-packed story and emotional depth.
Vikrant Massey’s Heartfelt Performance
Vikrant Massey’s portrayal of IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma in “12th Fail” won hearts and the Best Actor award. His authentic and moving performance left a lasting impact.
The Role and Its Impact
Vikrant played Manoj Kumar Sharma, a man who overcomes poverty and repeated failures to crack the UPSC exam and become an IPS officer. This role inspires those facing tough circumstances to chase their dreams relentlessly.
The Story of “12th Fail”
Based on the real-life story of Manoj Kumar Sharma and his wife Shraddha Joshi, “12th Fail” highlights the power of education and perseverance. It won the Best Feature Film award for its compelling narrative.
Vikrant’s Journey
Vikrant started with TV shows like “Balika Vadhu” and “Qubool Hai”. His roles in films like “Lootera”, “Chhapaak”, and “Haseen Dillruba” earned praise, but “12th Fail” made him a national star.
Info: If you love inspiring stories, “12th Fail” is a must-watch for its heartfelt message.
Two Stars Sharing the Best Actor Award in 71st National Film Awards
Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey sharing the Best Actor award is a rare and exciting moment for Bollywood.
Has This Happened Before?
Yes, it’s not the first time. In the 69th National Film Awards, Suriya and Ajay Devgn shared the Best Actor award. This shows the jury’s willingness to honor two exceptional performances.
Comparing Their Performances
- Shah Rukh (Jawan): His role was intense, action-packed, and full of fiery dialogues, captivating audiences.
- Vikrant (12th Fail): His performance was subtle yet powerful, with every scene reflecting his character’s struggle and hope.
What This Means for the Industry
This trend highlights that National Awards now celebrate both mainstream blockbusters and content-driven films. It reflects the inclusivity and diversity of Indian cinema.
Comparing “Jawan” and “12th Fail”
While both films shone in 2023, their stories and styles were vastly different.
Themes and Social Impact
- Jawan: Focuses on corruption, systemic flaws, and the need for social reform. It urges people to stand against injustice.
- 12th Fail: A story of education, grit, and chasing dreams, especially inspiring for those from underprivileged backgrounds.
Audience and Critic Reactions
- Jawan: Loved for its action and story, it grossed over ₹1100 crore and was called a “paisa vasool” film.
- 12th Fail: Praised for its authentic storytelling and performances, critics ranked it among 2023’s best films.
Box Office vs. Content
“Jawan” dominated the box office, while “12th Fail” won hearts with its story. The National Awards honored both, proving there’s space for commercial hits and meaningful cinema.
| Aspect | Jawan | 12th Fail |
|---|---|---|
| Theme | Corruption, Social Reform | Education, Perseverance |
| Box Office | ₹1100 crore+ | Moderate, Content-Driven |
| Awards | Best Actor (Shah Rukh) | Best Feature Film, Best Actor (Vikrant) |
| Impact | Sparked Social Discussions, Blockbuster | Inspirational, Emotional |
Read official (AIR) about 71st National Film Awards
Shah Rukh and Vikrant’s Reactions
- Shah Rukh Khan: He shared a video on Instagram, saying, “This award means the world to me. Thank you to my fans, the jury, and the entire ‘Jawan’ team.”
- Vikrant Massey: In an interview, he said, “Twenty years ago, I dreamt of doing something big. This award is proof of that dream.” He dedicated it to those fighting tough battles.
Will Shah Rukh Be Seen Differently Now?
From Superstar to Serious Actor
Shah Rukh has always been the “King of Romance”, but “Jawan” showcases his depth as an actor. This award cements his image as a versatile performer.
Will His Film Choices Change?
Shah Rukh is already selective about his projects. This win might push him toward more diverse roles, but he’ll likely continue making crowd-pleasing blockbusters for his fans.
Vikrant Massey: The Face of Hard Work
Vikrant’s journey is nothing short of a movie itself. From small TV roles to a National Award, his story is inspiring. “12th Fail” proved his talent, making him a role model for aspiring actors.
Fans’ Excitement on Social Media
Social media exploded with #KingSRK and #RealHeroVikrant trending. A fan wrote, “Shah Rukh’s National Award is a win for every fan!” Another said, “Vikrant’s performance in ‘12th Fail’ is an inspiration for anyone who feels like giving up.” Some fans jokingly said Shah Rukh deserved this for “Devdas” or “Chak De India” earlier.
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Who won the Best Actor award at the 71st National Film Awards 2025?
At the 71st National Film Awards announced on August 1, 2025, Shah Rukh Khan won Best Actor for “Jawan”, while Vikrant Massey received the same honor for “12th Fail”. This marked the first National Award win for both actors.
What is the story of Vikrant Massey’s “12th Fail”?
“12th Fail” is based on the real-life journey of IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma, who overcame poverty and multiple academic failures to clear the UPSC exam. Vikrant Massey’s heartfelt performance in this motivational biopic earned him the National Award for Best Actor.
Why was Shah Rukh Khan’s win for “Jawan” considered historic?
Despite a 33-year-long illustrious career with multiple blockbuster hits, “Jawan” brought Shah Rukh Khan his first-ever National Award. His dual role in the film, combining action with a powerful message on corruption, won him praise from both fans and critics.
Conclusion: A New Era for Cinema
The 71st National Film Awards show that Bollywood is embracing both star power and talent. Honoring Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey together proves that commercial hits and content-driven films are equally valued. Is this a sign that National Awards are becoming more inclusive? Only next year’s films and awards will tell.
What do you think? Share your thoughts on Shah Rukh and Vikrant’s wins in the comments below. If you enjoyed this article, share it with friends and subscribe to our website for the latest Bollywood updates.
