The 71st National Film Awards, honoring the best of Indian cinema in 2023, were announced on August 1, 2025, and this year’s ceremony celebrated both legends and rising stars.
Double Delight for Best Actor: Shah Rukh Khan & Vikrant Massey
In a rare tie, Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey jointly bagged the Best Actor award.
SRK, after 33 years in cinema, earned his first-ever National Award for Jawan, where his intense dual-role performance wowed critics and fans alike.
Vikrant Massey won for his role in 12th Fail, portraying a small-town youth with grit and honesty.
Rani Mukerji Bags Best Actress for ‘Mrs. Chatterjee Vs Norway’
Rani Mukerji clinched the Best Actress award for her powerful role as a mother in Mrs. Chatterjee Vs Norway. Marking her first National Award, Rani called it a deeply emotional milestone in her three-decade career.
“This award validates the battles I fought onscreen and offscreen,” she said in a heartfelt statement.
12th Fail Wins Best Feature Film
Directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, 12th Fail was declared Best Feature Film, hailed for its grounded storytelling and inspirational message. Massey, who starred in the film, had earlier called this recognition “a dream come true.”
Hindi Films Dominate Awards Night
Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani was named Best Popular Film and won Best Choreography for “Dhindhora Baje Re.”
Sam Bahadur received special honors for promoting national values and won in makeup and costume design.
Strong Technical Showings
The Kerala Story won Best Direction and Cinematography.
Animal bagged awards for sound design, background score, and re-recording.
Baby (Telugu) earned Best Screenplay and Best Male Playback Singer.
Other recognized films include Vaathi, Balagam, Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai, and Pookkaalam.
