71st National Film Awards: Shah Rukh, Rani Win First Honours, Mohanlal Receives Dadasaheb Phalke Award

New Delhi, Sept 23, 2025 National Awards Ceremony Begins in Delhi The 71st National Film Awards ceremony was held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Tuesday. President Droupadi Murmu presented the awards to winners across categories, marking a historic evening for Indian cinema. The awards, announced last month by the jury, celebrate films across 18 official languages and remain the country’s most prestigious recognition for cinematic excellence. Shah Rukh Khan Accepts First National Award Superstar Shah Rukh Khan received his first ever National Award from President Murmu. The moment was met with loud applause, with the actor’s salt-and-pepper look drawing attention. Many fans noted that his presence alongside Rani Mukerji evoked memories of their 2004 film Veer Zaara. Rani Mukerji Honoured as Best Actress Rani Mukerji took home the Best Actress award for her acclaimed performance in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway. Dressed in an elegant outfit, she smiled as she accepted the award, marking another milestone in her long career. Vikrant Massey Recognised for 12th Fail Actor Vikrant Massey was awarded Best Actor, sharing the honour with Shah Rukh Khan. He received his award for his powerful portrayal in 12th Fail. Looking sharp in a white suit, Massey sat alongside Shah Rukh and Rani during the ceremony, making the trio one of the most talked-about sights of the evening. Mohanlal Receives Dadasaheb Phalke Award Malayalam legend Mohanlal was conferred with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest recognition in cinema. He accepted the honour with a shawl and a scroll, seated next to his wife Suchitra. The award cements his legacy as one of the greatest actors in Indian film history. Fans Celebrate Shah Rukh’s Big Moment Outside the ceremony, Shah Rukh Khan’s fans flooded social media with emotional posts, celebrating their star’s first National Award. Videos and pictures from the event quickly went viral, with supporters expressing pride in his three-decade career. Warm Praise for Winners The evening carried a celebratory atmosphere as the announcer highlighted Shah Rukh Khan’s cinematic journey, drawing a visible blush from the actor. The event also spotlighted Rani Mukerji’s longevity and Vikrant Massey’s rise as one of the most promising new stars in the industry. A Night of Historic Firsts The 71st National Film Awards will be remembered for marking new chapters in the careers of Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji, while also honouring veterans like Mohanlal. With its blend of fresh recognition and lifetime achievement, the ceremony showcased both the evolving and enduring spirit of Indian cinema. 71st National Film Awards Highlights The 71st National Film Awards in New Delhi turned into a historic evening for Indian cinema. Shah Rukh Khan received his first ever National Award, marking a major milestone in his legendary career. Rani Mukerji was honoured with Best Actress for Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway, while Vikrant Massey shared the Best Actor title with Shah Rukh for his role in 12th Fail. Malayalam superstar Mohanlal was conferred the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, cementing his place among cinema’s greatest icons. The night celebrated both fresh achievements and lifelong contributions, making it a memorable moment for the film industry.