National Film Awards 2025: Shah Rukh & Vikrant Share Best Actor Title

In a surprising turn at the 71st National Film Awards, the Best Actor title was awarded jointly to Shah Rukh Khan for Jawan and Vikrant Massey for 12th Fail. For SRK, it marked a long-awaited national honor, finally placing the Bollywood legend among the country’s most decorated actors. For Vikrant Massey, this award is a bold validation of his sharp rise from television to critically acclaimed cinema.

Rani Mukerji Shines With Best Actress Award

Rani Mukerji was honored with the Best Actress award for her compelling role in Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway. The film’s emotionally intense storyline and Rani’s raw, grounded portrayal struck a chord with both audiences and critics, cementing her position as a timeless talent in Bollywood.

‘12th Fail’ Sweeps as Best Feature Film

Adding to Vikrant Massey’s Best Actor win, 12th Fail also bagged the Best Feature Film award. The movie’s hard-hitting narrative about perseverance and societal pressures has clearly resonated with the jury and audiences alike.

Kathal Named Best Hindi Film

In another win for experimental cinema, Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery won Best Hindi Film. The film’s quirky yet socially conscious storytelling drew praise for its originality and was a refreshing departure from typical Bollywood fare.

Rocky Aur Rani Wins Big With the Masses

Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment went to Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani, reaffirming Karan Johar’s golden touch when it comes to making emotional, family-friendly blockbusters.

Regional Power: Vash, Aatmapamphlet & More

In the regional categories, Gujarati film Vash was honored as the Best Gujarati Film, while Marathi cinema had a phenomenal year. Films like Aatmapamphlet (Best Debut Film), Naal 2 (Best Children’s Film), and Shyamchi Aai (Best Marathi Film) earned accolades—proving regional storytellers are now at the forefront of innovation and emotional resonance in Indian cinema.

Marathi Child Artists Steal Hearts

A joint award for Best Child Artist was another highlight from the Marathi segment, demonstrating the emergence of young, authentic talent beyond metro cities.

Tradition Meets Transition

The awards this year highlighted a major shift—honoring legends like Shah Rukh and Rani while also uplifting grounded narratives like 12th Fail and regional gems. The jury clearly leaned toward performance-driven, socially conscious, and emotionally authentic cinema over typical blockbuster formulas.