Former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Raj Purohit has stirred debate by asserting that successive Congress-led governments overlooked Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan for major accolades, while the BJP has recognized his talent purely on merit. Speaking to PTI Videos in Mumbai, Purohit highlighted Khan’s recent National Award win for Best Actor for his role in the 2023 blockbuster Jawan, shared with 12th Fail star Vikrant Massey, as evidence of the BJP’s commitment to rewarding excellence irrespective of caste or religion.
“Many people felt that the Congress overlooked Shah Rukh Khan,” Purohit stated, suggesting that previous administrations failed to acknowledge the actor’s contributions to Indian cinema. He emphasized that the BJP evaluates performers based solely on their craft, pointing to Khan’s award as a counter to accusations of religious or caste-based discrimination leveled against the party. “The BJP never judged the actor on the basis of religion but recognized his talent and performances,” Purohit added, underscoring the party’s belief in “unity, meritocracy, and capability.”
Khan’s win at the 71st National Film Awards, announced in August 2025, marks a significant milestone in his illustrious career. Jawan, a high-octane action thriller directed by Atlee, showcased Khan as a vigilante anti-hero, earning widespread acclaim for its gripping narrative and his commanding performance. The film’s commercial success—grossing over ₹1,100 crore globally—further cemented Khan’s status as a box-office titan. His shared Best Actor honor with Massey, recognized for his poignant portrayal in Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s 12th Fail, reflects the National Awards’ focus on diverse cinematic achievements.
Also Read: Kharge Declares Nitish 'Retired,' Predicts PM Modi’s Fall in 2025
Purohit’s remarks come amid ongoing political debates over cultural recognition and inclusivity in India. The BJP, which has governed at the center since 2014, has often faced criticism from opposition parties, including Congress, for allegedly promoting divisive policies. By highlighting Khan’s award, Purohit seeks to position the BJP as a champion of merit, countering narratives of bias. Khan, a global cultural ambassador with a fanbase spanning continents, has previously received honors like the Padma Shri in 2005 and international accolades, but this National Award marks his first in the Best Actor category.
The comments have sparked reactions, with some praising the BJP’s recognition of Khan’s contributions, while others question the politicization of awards. Congress supporters argue that Khan’s achievements were celebrated under their regimes through non-governmental honors and industry recognition. As the debate unfolds, Khan’s win continues to shine a spotlight on India’s vibrant film industry and the intersection of politics and culture.
Also Read: BJP Mob Humiliates Congress Leader Over Morphed PM Modi Pic