Veteran actor Anupam Kher expressed his delight over Shah Rukh Khan’s first National Film Award win for Best Actor, calling the recognition long overdue for the Bollywood superstar. Khan received the prestigious award for his role in the 2023 action blockbuster Jawan at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony held on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, where President Droupadi Murmu presented the honors. Khan shared the Best Actor award with Vikrant Massey, recognized for his performance in 12th Fail, directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra.
In an interview with PTI, Kher, who has collaborated with Khan on iconic films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Mohabbatein, Veer-Zaara, and Paheli, reflected on Khan’s illustrious career. “I am very happy for him, and personally happy that he finally got it after 40 years,” Kher said, noting Khan’s past performances, particularly in Swades, deserved similar recognition. He acknowledged the disappointment Khan likely felt when earlier roles went unnoticed by the awards, making this win a significant milestone.
Kher also highlighted the award’s broader significance, emphasizing its validation of mainstream cinema. “It’s a very good thing because it breaks the narrative that you need a special kind of film to win a National Award,” he said. He celebrated the star-studded ceremony, noting the presence of industry stalwarts like Karan Johar and Rani Mukerji alongside Khan, marking a moment of recognition for commercial cinema at the national level.
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Additionally, Kher shared his excitement for Malayalam cinema legend Mohanlal, who received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award at the same ceremony. “I called him up and said, ‘Mohanlal, you are the youngest recipient of Dadasaheb Phalke award,’” Kher recounted, praising the actor’s achievement. The 71st National Film Awards underscored the diversity and excellence of Indian cinema, honoring both mainstream and regional contributions.
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