The prestigious 71st National Film Awards were held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, on September 23, 2025. The grand ceremony, hosted by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, honored the finest talents of Indian cinema. President Droupadi Murmu presented the awards, making it a memorable evening for Bollywood and regional stars alike.
Mohanlal Honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award
Malayalam superstar Mohanlal received the highest honor of Indian cinema—the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023—for his unparalleled contribution to films. The hall erupted in applause as dignitaries and fellow actors, including Shah Rukh Khan, gave him a standing ovation.
Shah Rukh Khan Wins His First National Award
In a career spanning over 30 years, Shah Rukh Khan bagged his first-ever National Award. He won Best Actor for his stellar performance in Jawan. Sharing the honor, actor Vikrant Massey was also awarded Best Actor for his powerful role in 12th Fail.
Rani Mukerji Wins Best Actress
Bollywood veteran Rani Mukerji received her first National Award for Best Actress for her role in Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway. The actress, who has spent nearly three decades in the industry, was visibly emotional while receiving the honor.
Other Major Highlights
- Vaibhavi Merchant won Best Choreography for Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani song Dindhora Baje Re.
- Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery, directed by Yashowardhan Mishra, won Best Hindi Film.
- Gujarati film Vash won Best Regional Film (Gujarati).
- Sudipto Sen’s The Kerala Story bagged Best Direction and Best Cinematography.
- Playback singer Shilpa Rao won Best Female Singer for Chhaleya (Jawan).
Complete List of Key Winners
- Best Feature Film – 12th Fail
- Best Hindi Film – Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery
- Best Actor – Shah Rukh Khan (Jawan), Vikrant Massey (12th Fail)
- Best Actress – Rani Mukerji (Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway)
- Dadasaheb Phalke Award – Mohanlal
- Best Popular Film – Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani
- Best Choreography – Dindhora Baje Re (Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani)
- Best Direction – Sudipto Sen (The Kerala Story)
- Best Sound Design – Animal (Hindi)
