71st National Film Awards: Shah Rukh Khan, Vikrant Massey, Rani Mukerji Shine; Kathal Wins Best Hindi Film

71st National Film Awards: Shah Rukh Khan, Vikrant Massey, Rani Mukerji Shine; Kathal Wins Best Hindi Film

71st National Film Awards: Shah Rukh Khan, Vikrant Massey, Rani Mukerji Shine; Kathal Wins Best Hindi Film


New Delhi, August 1, 2025 — The 71st National Film Awards, one of India’s most prestigious cinematic honors, were announced today at the National Media Centre, celebrating the finest achievements in Indian cinema for the year 2023. The awards recognized outstanding performances, powerful storytelling, and technical brilliance across languages and genres.

Best Actor: A Historic Tie Between Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey

In a landmark moment, Shah Rukh Khan received his first-ever National Award for his role in Jawan, sharing the Best Actor title with Vikrant Massey, who was honored for his compelling performance in 12th Fail. This rare tie marks a celebration of both veteran charisma and emerging talent.

Best Actress: Rani Mukerji’s Emotional Triumph

Rani Mukerji won Best Actress for her powerful portrayal in Mrs. Chatterjee Vs Norway, a film that resonated deeply with audiences for its emotional depth and social relevance.

Best Hindi Film: Kathal Wins Big

The quirky and socially conscious film Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery, starring Sanya Malhotra, was awarded Best Hindi Feature Film, applauded for its unique narrative and satirical tone.

Other Major Winners

Category Winner
Best Feature Film 12th Fail by Vidhu Vinod Chopra
Best Director Sudipto Sen (The Kerala Story)
Best Supporting Actor Vijayaraghavan (Pookkaalam), M.S. Bhaskar (Parking)
Best Supporting Actress Urvashi (Ullozhukku), Janki Bodiwala (Vash)
Best Popular Film (Wholesome Entertainment) Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani
Best Music Direction (Background Score) Harshavardhan Rameshwar (Animal)
Best Cinematography Prasanthanu Mohapatra (The Kerala Story)
Best Playback Singer (Female) Shilpa Rao (ChaliyaJawan)
Best Playback Singer (Male) PVN S Rohit (PremisthunnaBaby)

Regional Cinema Recognized

The awards also celebrated regional excellence, with honors going to:

  • Parking (Tamil)
  • Bhagavanth Kesari (Telugu)
  • Ullozhukku (Malayalam)
  • Pushkara (Odia)
  • Deep Fridge (Bengali)
  • Rongatapu 1982 (Assamese)

Jury and Ceremony

The jury, chaired by filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker, evaluated films certified by the CBFC between January 1 and December 31, 2023. The official award ceremony will be held later this year at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where winners will receive the coveted Swarna Kamal and cash prizes.

This year’s National Film Awards highlighted a blend of socially relevant themes, female-led narratives, and technical innovation, reaffirming the evolving landscape of Indian cinema. From Shah Rukh Khan’s long-awaited recognition to Kathal’s satirical brilliance, the 71st edition was a celebration of diversity, depth, and cinematic excellence.

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