Shah Rukh Khan, Vikrant Massey and Rani Mukerji Win Acting Honors as ‘12th Fail’ Named Best Film at India’s National Awards

The 71st National Film Awards, held in India, marked a significant celebration of cinematic excellence, honoring the best films and performances from the previous year. Announced on August 1, 2025, these awards, presented by the National Film Development Corporation of India, recognized outstanding contributions to Indian cinema across various categories. This year’s ceremony was particularly notable for the recognition of some of Bollywood’s biggest stars, including Shah Rukh Khan, Vikrant Massey, and Rani Mukerji, who all received prestigious accolades for their performances.

Overview of the Awards

The National Film Awards are one of the most esteemed film awards in India, established in 1954 to encourage and recognize excellence in Indian cinema. The awards are decided by independent juries appointed by the Directorate of Film Festivals, ensuring a fair and unbiased selection process. The 71st edition considered a total of 332 feature films, 115 non-feature films, and 27 books, showcasing a wide array of talent and creativity in the industry.

Major Winners

Best Feature Film: “12th Fail”

The highlight of the evening was the award for Best Feature Film, which went to “12th Fail,” directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra. This Hindi-language biographical drama is based on the life of civil servant Manoj Kumar Sharma, who faced numerous challenges on his path to success. The film not only won the prestigious Swarna Kamal (Golden Lotus) award but also resonated with audiences for its inspiring narrative and strong performances. Vikrant Massey, who played the lead role, shared the Best Actor award for his compelling portrayal, marking a significant milestone in his career.

Best Actor: Shah Rukh Khan

Shah Rukh Khan, often referred to as the “King of Bollywood,” received his first-ever National Award for Best Actor for his performance in the blockbuster film “Jawan.” Directed by Atlee, “Jawan” was a commercial success and showcased Khan in a dual role, demonstrating his versatility as an actor. His win was celebrated not only by fans but also by industry peers, as it marked a long-awaited recognition of his contributions to Indian cinema.

Best Actress: Rani Mukerji

Rani Mukerji was awarded Best Actress for her powerful performance in “Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway.” In this film, she portrayed a mother embroiled in a custody battle against a foreign government, a role that demanded emotional depth and resilience. Mukerji’s win was seen as a testament to her enduring talent and ability to tackle complex characters, further solidifying her status as one of Bollywood’s leading actresses.

Other Notable Awards

Best Direction

The award for Best Direction went to Sudipto Sen for “The Kerala Story,” a political thriller that sparked discussions for its controversial themes. The film also won the award for Best Cinematography, credited to Prasanthanu Mohapatra, highlighting the film’s visual storytelling and technical prowess.

Best Popular Film

Karan Johar’s “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani” was recognized as the Best Popular Film, providing wholesome entertainment to audiences. The film also won the award for Best Choreography for the song “Dhodhora Baje Re,” showcasing the vibrant dance sequences that are a hallmark of Johar’s productions.

Supporting Categories

In the supporting categories, Urvashi was named Best Supporting Actress for her role in “Ullazhukku” (Malayalam), while Janki Bodiwala received the award for her performance in the Gujarati horror-thriller “Vash.” The Best Supporting Actor category saw a tie between Vijayaraghavan for “Pookalam” (Malayalam) and Muthupettai Somu Bhaskar for “Parking” (Tamil), reflecting the strong performances across regional cinema.

Technical Awards

The technical awards recognized excellence in various aspects of filmmaking. “Animal” won for Best Sound Design and Re-recording, while “Vaathi” received the award for Best Music Direction (Songs) by G. V. Prakash Kumar. “Balagam” was awarded Best Lyrics, showcasing the importance of music and sound in enhancing the cinematic experience.

Regional Honors

The awards also celebrated regional cinema, with films recognized across multiple languages. “Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery” was named Best Hindi Film, while “Bhagavanth Kesari” took home the award for Best Telugu Film. Other regional winners included “Parking” (Tamil), “Ullazhukku” (Malayalam), and “Vash” (Gujarati), highlighting the diversity of storytelling in Indian cinema.

Non-Feature Film Awards

In the non-feature film category, “Flowering Man” was awarded Best Non-Feature Film, with “The First Film” winning both Best Direction and Best Music. Other notable winners included “Little Wings” (Tamil) for Best Cinematography and “Moving Focus” (English) for Best Editing. The awards also recognized several documentaries and short films, emphasizing the importance of diverse narratives in the film industry.

Conclusion

The 71st National Film Awards not only celebrated the achievements of individual artists but also highlighted the collective growth and evolution of Indian cinema. With a focus on storytelling that resonates with audiences, the awards showcased a rich tapestry of talent across various genres and languages. As the film industry continues to evolve, the National Film Awards remain a vital platform for recognizing and honoring the hard work and creativity of filmmakers and artists in India.

This year’s ceremony was a reminder of the power of cinema to inspire, entertain, and provoke thought, reinforcing the importance of storytelling in shaping cultural narratives. As we look forward to the future of Indian cinema, the 71st National Film Awards will be remembered as a significant milestone in celebrating the art of filmmaking and the artists who bring these stories to life.

The Impact of the Awards

The National Film Awards serve not only as a recognition of artistic excellence but also as a catalyst for the growth of the film industry. By honoring diverse voices and stories, the awards encourage filmmakers to explore new themes and narratives, pushing the boundaries of creativity. The recognition of regional films alongside mainstream Bollywood productions highlights the rich cultural tapestry of India, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for the country’s diverse cinematic landscape.

Future Prospects

As the film industry continues to adapt to changing audience preferences and technological advancements, the National Film Awards will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Indian cinema. With the rise of digital platforms and the increasing globalization of content, filmmakers are presented with new opportunities to reach wider audiences. The awards will continue to celebrate innovation and creativity, ensuring that the spirit of storytelling remains at the forefront of Indian cinema.

In conclusion, the 71st National Film Awards not only honored the best of the past year but also set the stage for the future of Indian cinema. With a commitment to recognizing excellence and diversity, the awards will remain a cornerstone of the film industry, inspiring generations of filmmakers and audiences alike.