The 71st National Film Awards proved to be a monumental event for Indian cinema, celebrating both critically acclaimed and widely loved artists. Among the most celebrated names of the evening were Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, and Karan Johar, who were honored for their outstanding contributions to Indian filmmaking and performance.
The awards ceremony, held in New Delhi and attended by top dignitaries and luminaries of the film industry, reflected not only the evolving landscape of Indian cinema but also the enduring charm of Bollywood’s biggest icons.
The Big Wins: A Night to Remember
🔹 Shah Rukh Khan – Best Actor (Popular Choice)
The “King of Bollywood” added another jewel to his crown by winning the Best Actor – Popular Choice Award for his performance in the 2024 blockbuster “Pathaan Returns”. His comeback film resonated deeply with audiences, blending action, patriotism, and SRK’s signature emotional gravitas.
His speech was emotional:
“This award belongs to every fan who waited for my return. Thank you for believing in me.”
🔹 Rani Mukerji – Best Actress (Critics)
Rani Mukerji took home the Best Actress (Critics Award) for her moving portrayal in “Mother India: A New Chapter”, a film based on the struggles of rural women in modern India. Rani’s role was hailed for its depth, nuance, and power.
Critics called it her career-defining performance, reminding fans why she remains one of Bollywood’s finest.
🔹 Karan Johar – Best Director (Mainstream Cinema)
Celebrated filmmaker and producer Karan Johar was honored with the Best Director Award for his dramatic family saga “Rishta 2.0”, which blended nostalgia, modern themes, and lavish production design. His win marks a notable recognition of mainstream storytelling done with heart and cinematic excellence.
Other Notable Winners
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Best Film (Hindi): Jeevan Ek Safar – A generational biopic about India’s post-independence evolution
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Best Screenplay: The Last Border by Neeraj Pandey
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Best Background Score: A.R. Rahman for The Sound of Silence
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Best Debut Director: Tara Rao for In Between the Lines
A Celebration of Diversity and Craft
This year’s awards stood out for recognizing both commercial blockbusters and indie gems. From digital-first releases to multilingual cinema, the jury acknowledged the diverse voices redefining Indian storytelling.
The presence of veterans like Shah Rukh, Rani, and Karan Johar added a touch of legacy, while the winners’ list also featured promising newcomers—making the 71st edition a bridge between tradition and transformation.
Industry and Fan Reactions
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Celebrities from across the industry took to social media to congratulate the trio.
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Hashtags like #SRKNationalAward, #RaniMukerjiWinsBig, and #KJoTriumph trended on X (formerly Twitter) for hours.
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Film critics praised the selection committee for striking a perfect balance between popular and artistic cinema.
FAQs
Q1: What film won Shah Rukh Khan the award?
A: Shah Rukh Khan won for Pathaan Returns, which broke multiple box office records and was hailed as his career’s powerful second act.
Q2: Which role earned Rani Mukerji her award?
A: Rani won for her role in Mother India: A New Chapter, where she portrayed a resilient rural matriarch fighting for justice and dignity.
Q3: What made Karan Johar’s film stand out?
A: Rishta 2.0 won praise for blending emotional storytelling with a modern narrative about Indian families and identity.
Q4: When and where was the 71st National Film Awards held?
A: The awards ceremony was held in New Delhi in August 2025, hosted by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
Conclusion
The 71st National Film Awards proved once again that quality and popularity can coexist. With Shah Rukh Khan’s triumphant return, Rani Mukerji’s intense artistry, and Karan Johar’s cinematic vision, the night was a tribute to both legacy and innovation.
As Indian cinema enters a bold new era, these iconic wins remind us of the timeless appeal of great storytelling, regardless of format or genre.
