Actor Vikrant Massey described his National Award win as a surreal milestone, revealing that during the brief 20-second interaction with President Droupadi Murmu at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony on Tuesday, his primary focus was on protocol and securing a memorable photograph for his home. Massey received the best actor honour for his compelling portrayal in Vidhu Vinod Chopra's 12th Fail, a film that also clinched the best feature film award. The 38-year-old actor, known for his nuanced performances, shared these insights in an exclusive interview with PTI, emphasising the joy shared by his family and well-wishers.
The ceremony, held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, brought together luminaries of Indian cinema, including superstar Shah Rukh Khan, who was awarded for his blockbuster Jawan. Massey, sharing the stage with icons like Rani Mukerji—honoured for best actress in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway—and Malayalam veteran Mohanlal, recipient of the 2023 Dadasaheb Phalke Award, found the experience profoundly inspiring.
"It feels great to be honoured alongside someone like him (SRK)... He has inspired so many people," Massey said. He praised the enduring childlike excitement in Khan and Mukerji, despite their decades-long careers, noting how their passion continues to motivate younger artists. Both stars commended Massey's work in 12th Fail, with Mukerji sending congratulatory messages post-release and during subsequent meetings.
Based on Anurag Pathak's bestselling book, 12th Fail chronicles the real-life struggles of IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma and his wife, IRS officer Shraddha Joshi, portrayed by Medha Shankr. Released in October 2023, the film resonated with audiences for its underdog narrative, reflecting the resilience inherent in Indian stories. Massey and Chopra immediately recognised its inspirational potential, aiming to share a tale of perseverance amid adversity.
"We are very resilient as people... We continue to strive to better ourselves each day," Massey reflected. He stressed that awards are unforeseen rewards, not the intent behind artistic endeavours, underscoring his commitment to authentic storytelling without preconceived notions of acclaim.
Also Read: Mohanlal Dedicates Dadasaheb Phalke Award To Malayalam Cinema Fraternity
Massey's journey from television serials like Dharam Veer and Balika Vadhu in 2004 to critically acclaimed films such as Lootera, A Death in the Gunj, Dil Dhadakne Do, Lipstick Under My Burkha, Chhapaak, Mirzapur, Sector 36, and Cargo highlights his versatility and quiet intensity.
The National Award, he said, evokes a sense of responsibility rather than pressure, reinforcing his dedication to basics: voicing the voiceless and representing the common man sincerely. "Getting to realise your dreams is such a wonderful blessing," he added, grateful for audiences' support across platforms. As he processes the win, Massey remains grounded, focused on future projects that continue to tell meaningful stories.
Also Read: Mohanlal, SRK, Rani Mukerji, Vikrant Massey Honoured at National Awards