The 71st National Film Awards winners have been revealed, and Shah Rukh Khan, Vikrant Massey, and Rani Mukerji have emerged as the top honourees of the year. The awards ceremony, held today in New Delhi, saw these Bollywood powerhouses celebrated for their stellar performances across a range of compelling narratives.
Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey shared the prestigious Best Actor title for their performances in Jawan and 12th Fail. Khan’s role as a vigilante in the high-octane action thriller captivated audiences, while Massey portrayed the inspiring journey of a UPSC aspirant with quiet intensity and realism.
Rani Mukerji was awarded Best Actress for Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway, a film based on the true story of an Indian mother fighting for her children in a foreign land. Her raw and emotional performance won hearts and stood out as one of the year’s most poignant acts.
In another celebrated win, Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery bagged the Best Hindi Feature Film award. The Netflix satire earned accolades for mixing humour with a hard-hitting commentary on bureaucracy and social priorities. Sanya Malhotra’s performance and the film’s original narrative were especially praised by critics.
The jury’s choices this year were widely appreciated for their diversity and depth. From commercial blockbusters to intimate character studies, the 71st National Film Awards winners reflect the broad spectrum of Indian cinema’s evolution. Industry voices have lauded this year’s picks as a sign of changing tides, where content and craft are taking centre stage.
These wins are expected to boost international recognition for Indian films, with many already slated for global streaming premieres and award circuits abroad.
⸻
FAQ
Who are the 71st National Film Awards winners?
Shah Rukh Khan, Vikrant Massey, and Rani Mukerji were the key winners this year.
Which films were recognised at the 71st National Film Awards?
Jawan, 12th Fail, Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway, and Kathal received top honours.
Why did Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey share Best Actor?
Both delivered acclaimed performances in Jawan and 12th Fail, showcasing unique strengths.
What was Rani Mukerji awarded for at the 71st National Film Awards?
She won Best Actress for her performance in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway.
Which film won Best Hindi Feature Film in 2025?
Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery received the Best Hindi Feature Film award.
