The 71st National Film Awards turned into a celebration for singer Shilpa Rao, who was awarded Best Playback Singer for the hit romantic track ‘Chaleya’ from Shah Rukh Khan’s blockbuster Jawan (2023). The award came as a joyful surprise for Rao, who couldn’t hide her excitement upon hearing the news.
Shah Rukh Khan’s Personal Call Sparked It All
Speaking to India Today, Shilpa Rao revealed that it all started with a personal phone call from Shah Rukh Khan himself. “He called me and asked me to be part of Jawan. That gesture meant a lot,” she said. Rao also thanked music composer Anirudh Ravichander and credited the entire team for creating a comfortable and creative recording environment.
“Chaleya” Was More Than Just a Song
Rao described the process of recording Chaleya as unforgettable. She praised the energy in the studio and said that the vibe during the sessions was full of focus and mutual respect. “We were working together for the first time, but it didn’t feel like it,” she shared.
The song quickly became a favorite among fans, and Rao took a moment to thank her listeners: “The love from fans is what truly makes this award meaningful. Their connection with the song made it special.”
Rao’s Reaction to Shah Rukh Khan’s Win
In a fun twist, Rao wasn’t aware that Shah Rukh Khan had also won Best Actor at the same awards ceremony for Jawan. Upon learning this, she exclaimed, “Oh my God, this is massive then. Cheers to all of us!” Her spontaneous and joyful reaction summed up the spirit of this year’s award ceremony.
71st National Awards: A Night of Big Wins
The event, held in New Delhi at the National Media Centre, honored the best talents in Indian cinema. The Best Actor award was jointly given to Shah Rukh Khan (Jawan) and Vikrant Massey (12th Fail). Rani Mukerji won Best Actress for her role in Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway.
Meanwhile, 12th Fail also took home the Best Feature Film award, and Kathal won Best Hindi Film.
A Historic Milestone for Indian Music and Cinema
With this recognition, Shilpa Rao joins the elite group of National Award winners, and Chaleya cements its place as one of the most iconic songs of 2023. Her journey with Jawan is a reminder of how meaningful collaborations can lead to career-defining moments.
