SRK, Rani win first National Film Awards

The 71st National Film Awards were announced on Friday evening, marking a historic moment for Hindi cinema icons Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji, as both were honoured with National Awards for the very first time in their illustrious careers.

The awards honoured the best of Indian cinema from films certified in 2023, and this year’s list saw both mainstream stars and regional gems being recognised.

The winners were announced at the National Media Centre in New Delhi, with the awards to be formally presented by the President of India at a later date. The list reflects the wide-ranging talent and diversity of Indian cinema in 2023, from indie dramas to mass entertainers.

Shah Rukh Khan, who has been a leading figure in Indian cinema for over 33 years, had previously been honoured with the Padma Shri by the Government of India and two of France’s highest civilian awards. However, this marks his first-ever National Film Award as an actor.

The jury recognised Shah Rukh Khan for his commanding performance in Jawan, a high-action drama that tackled themes of justice and corruption.

Released in 2023, the film not only set box office records but also showcased Khan in a complex dual role. Despite decades in cinema, this marks his first-ever National Film Award, adding a prestigious feather to his already celebrated career.

Rani Mukerji, a powerhouse performer in her own right, also received this prestigious recognition for the first time, cementing her legacy in Indian cinema.

Rani Mukerji won Best Actress in a leading role for her powerful performance in Mrs. Chatterjee Vs Norway. Her portrayal of a Bengali mother fighting for her children’s custody against a foreign state struck a chord with audiences and critics alike.

The film, based on true events, showcased Rani’s range from vulnerability to fierce resistance and highlighted real-world issues around immigration and motherhood. This marks a significant milestone in her career and a comeback of sorts to the awards spotlight.

This year, 12th Fail, produced and directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, was adjudged the Best Hindi Feature Film. In the category of Best Actor in Mainstream Hindi Cinema, the award was jointly shared by Shah Rukh Khan for Jawan and Vikrant Massey for 12th Fail.

Vikrant Massey was lauded for his raw, nuanced portrayal of a small-town youth in 12th Fail. The film’s inspiring story about perseverance and integrity also won Best Feature Film, reinforcing its impact beyond just performance.

Sania Malhotra was also recognised as Best Actress for her role in Kathal.

Sudipto Sen was awarded Best Director for The Kerala Story. Vijay Raghavan (Phoolkalam) and Mathupettai Samu Bhaskar (Parking) won Best Supporting Actor awards. In the Best Supporting Actress category, the honours went to Janki Badiwala for Vaas and Urvashi for Ullozhukku.

Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani won the award for Best Choreography in a Popular Entertainment Film. Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery was declared Best Hindi Film overall.

In the regional category, the Bengali film Deepfreeze, directed by Arjun Dutta and starring Abir Chatterjee and Tonushree Chakraborty, was named Best Bengali Film. Meghna Gulzar’s Sam Bahadur received the award for portraying national and social values. The Kerala Story was recognised for Best Cinematography in a Hindi film.

Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai won Best Dialogue Writing. PVN Rohit received the award for Best Male Playback Singer for the song Premisthunna from the Telugu film Baby (2023). GV Prakash Kumar was awarded Best Music Director for Vaathi. The Best Makeup award went to Sam Bahadur.

Shilpa Rao won Best Female Playback Singer for Chaleya from Jawan. Swanand Kirkire was awarded for Best Lyrics for the song from Fandry. Vaibhavi Merchant won Best Choreography for the song Dhindhora Baje Re from Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani. Sam Bahadur also won the award for Best Costume Design.