The 71st National Film Awards 2025 celebrated at the Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, became among the most memorable nights in Indian cinema. From Shah Rukh Khan's long-awaited win to Rani Mukerji's emotionally charged victory, the evening celebrated the asteroids, stars, and stories that made Indian cinema truly exceptional in the year 2023.
SRK Wins First National Film Award
Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan finally managed to cart off his first National Award for Best Actor for his role in Jawan. His emotional acceptance speech went viral as fans termed "a historic moment in Indian cinema."
Vikrant Massey and SRK Share the Best Actor Award
On the stage with him was Vikrant Massey, awarded the Best Actor National Award for his role in 12th Fail. Sharing of the award was a rare decision by the jury, acknowledging both Khan's mass appeal and Massey's nuanced brilliance.
Best Actress Rani Mukherjee
Rani Mukerji was proclaimed the Best Actress for her heart-wrenching portrayal in Mrs. Chatterjee vs. Norway. This victory was roundly celebrated as long due recognition of her acting legacy.
Mohanlal Receives Dadasaheb Phalke Award
Another great name of Malayalam cinema, Mohanlal, was honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award of 2025, the greatest recognition in Indian cinema. His contribution over decades met with a standing ovation.
Major Film Awards 2025
12th Fail - Best Feature Film
Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani - Best Popular Film (Wholesome Entertainment)
Sam Bahadur - Best Film on National and Social Values
The Kerala Story - Best Cinematography (controversial win sparking political debate)
Why This Year’s Awards Matter
The awards represented a change in Indian cinema, celebrating both mass entertainers such as Jawan and socially minded dramas like 12th Fail and Sam Bahadur. The combination of Bollywood mega-hits, regional gems, and issue-oriented films demonstrated the multiplicity of Indian storytelling.
FAQs on National Film Awards 2025
Q1: Who won Best Actor at the National Film Awards 2025?
A: Shah Rukh Khan for Jawan and Vikrant Massey for 12th Fail.
Q2: Who is the Best Actress at the National Film Awards 2025?
A: Rani Mukerji for Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway.
Q3: Which film won Best Feature Film at the National Film Awards 2025?
A: 12th Fail.
Q4: Who received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2025?
A: Veteran Malayalam actor Mohanlal.
Q5: Why was The Kerala Story’s win controversial?
A: The Kerala Story won Best Cinematography, sparking criticism from Kerala’s Chief Minister, who called the choice politically motivated.