From the vulnerable coach in Chak De to the quietly driven scientist and intense patriot in Swades, Shah Rukh Khan has achieved nearly every accolade in Indian cinema in a career spanning more than three decades.
Some years back, Shah Rukh had said at an event that he should have won the National Film Award earlier for Swades. Now, he has crossed that long-awaited milestone. Finally, he has won the National Film Award.
At the 71st edition of the prestigious honours, Shah Rukh was named Best Actor for his performance in Jawan. For those who haven’t watched it, Jawan is a 2023 action blockbuster.
The film, directed by Atlee, featured the superstar in a dual role — as a vigilante army officer Vikram Rathore and his jailor son Azad. Jawan went on to earn more than Rs 1,100 crore globally. It furthered Khan’s credentials as a commercial force and a critically recognised performer.
He shared the Best Actor title with Vikrant Massey, who was honoured for his role in 12th Fail.
Shah Rukh shared a heartfelt post on social media.
He appeared emotional and reflective.
“I am overwhelmed with gratitude, pride and humility. To be honoured with the National Award is a moment that I will cherish for a lifetime,” he was quoted as saying.
He wore a sling on his right arm after an on-set injury during the filming of his upcoming project King.
According to reports, the message went beyond just celebration. Khan used the platform to articulate what the award truly meant to him — not as a culmination, but a new beginning.
“A national award is not just about achievement. It’s a reminder that what I do matters. It tells me to keep going, keep working hard, keep creating and keep serving cinema. In a world full of noise to be heard, truly heard, is a blessing. And I promise to use this recognition, not as a finish line, but as fuel to continue striving, learning and giving back. This award is a reminder for me that acting is not just work but a responsibility, to show the truth on the screen. I am grateful for all the love.”
Khan also made it a point to express his gratitude to those behind the scenes — beginning with the jury and the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, and extending it to his directors from recent films: Rajkumar Hirani (Dunki), Siddharth Anand (Pathaan), and most notably, Atlee.
“Thanks to Atlee sir and his team for giving me the opportunity in Jawan and trusting me to deliver and be worthy of this award. Atlee sir, this is like you say ‘mass’,” he said with a smile.
He didn’t forget the team that has stood by him day in and day out.
“I want to thank my team and management, which works tirelessly with me. They bear with me, my eccentricities and impatience and give me their full attention and make me look much better than I am… like even now in this video. This award, without their perseverance and love would not be possible at all. Thank you so much for everything you do.”
The personal touch continued as he turned to thank his family — his wife and children — for their constant support and patience, especially in the face of his consuming passion for cinema.
“My wife and kids who, over the last few years, give me so much more love and care as if I’m the kid in the house and want only the best for me. They know my obsession with cinema takes me away from them, but they all bear it with a smile and allow me the time. So thank you very much for that.”
Closing the message on a note of gratitude and promise, Khan addressed the people he credits most — his fans.
“Thank you for all the cheers and all the tears, and really, thank you for pausing your scrolling while watching my award. This award is for you, as each award is and yeah, I would love to spread my arms for you and share my love, but I’m a bit indisposed. But don’t worry, just keep the popcorn ready. I’ll be back in theaters and soon on the screen. So till then, just with one hand.”
With King currently in production, Shah Rukh Khan’s journey continues — no longer just the king of hearts and the box office, but now, finally, a National Award-winning actor.
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