The winners of the 71st National Film Awards were felicitated today, September 23, in a grand ceremony at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi. The event, which began at 4 pm, was graced by President Droupadi Murmu, who presented the prestigious honours to the winners.
The ceremony saw the presence of several stalwarts of Indian cinema, including Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, Mohanlal, Vikrant Massey, Karan Johar, Vaibhavi Merchant, and Ronnie Screwvala.
Shah Rukh Khan’s First National Award
After more than three decades of a celebrated career, Shah Rukh Khan clinched his first-ever National Award, sharing the Best Actor title with Vikrant Massey. Khan was recognised for his blockbuster performance in Jawan, while Massey earned acclaim for his powerful role in 12th Fail.
Rani Mukerji Shines as Best Actress
Rani Mukerji bagged the Best Actress award for her performance in Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway, a role that won her wide appreciation for its emotional depth and strength.
Mohanlal Receives Dadasaheb Phalke Award
Veteran Malayalam actor Mohanlal was honoured with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the highest recognition in Indian cinema, for his illustrious career spanning over four decades. Last year, the honour went to veteran Hindi actor Mithun Chakraborty.
Major Awards of the Evening
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Best Feature Film: 12th Fail by Vidhu Vinod Chopra
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Best Director: Sudipto Sen (The Kerala Story)
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Best Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment: Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani by Karan Johar
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Best Film Promoting National, Social Values: Sam Bahadur
The evening celebrated not just the winners but also the diversity and richness of Indian cinema.
